Marshal's Handbook: July 2020

Marshal’s Handbook
July 2020
Copyright © 1985, 1989, 1992, 1994, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2018, 2020 by
The Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
This handbook is an official corporate publication of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., a nonprofit
organization dedicated to researching and recreating the customs, combat and courtesy of the Middle Ages and the
Renaissance.
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Members of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., may photocopy this work in whole or in part for SCA use
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Revision History
Summary of changes from previous version (January 2020)
Page Paragraph Summary of Change Date Approved by the

Board of Directors
23 IX. Armored Combat with Rebated Blades July 2020
/s/
Gravesend
Society Marshal
M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K –July 2020

PARTICIPANTS’ SECTION ...................................................................................................................... 6
I. COMBAT AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................. 6
A. General............................................................................................................................................... 6
B. Minor Authorization .......................................................................................................................... 7
II. RULES OF THE LISTS ........................................................................................................................ 7
A. The Rules of the Lists ........................................................................................................................ 7
B. Applications of the Rules of the Lists ............................................................................................... 8
III. CONVENTIONS OF COMBAT....................................................................................................... 9
A. General Information ....................................................................................................................... 9
B. Behavior on the Field ........................................................................................................................ 9
C. Target Areas .................................................................................................................................... 10
D. Combat Archery Conventions ............................................................................................................. 10
IV. THE USE OF WEAPONS AND SHIELDS ................................................................................... 11
V. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF BLOWS ................................................................................................ 11
VI. ARMOR REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................... 12
A. Armored Participants ....................................................................................................................... 12
B. Helms ............................................................................................................................................... 13
C. Eye Wear ......................................................................................................................................... 13
D. Neck Armor ..................................................................................................................................... 13
E. Body, Shoulder, and Groin Armor .................................................................................................. 14
F. Hand and Wrist Armor: ................................................................................................................... 14
G. Arm Armor ...................................................................................................................................... 14
H. Leg Armor ....................................................................................................................................... 14
I. Shields ............................................................................................................................................. 15
VII. WEAPONS STANDARDS ............................................................................................................. 15
A. General............................................................................................................................................. 15
B. Single-Handed Weapons ................................................................................................................. 16
C. Two-Handed Weapons .................................................................................................................... 16
D. Fiberglass Spears ............................................................................................................................. 17
E. Throwing Weapons.......................................................................................................................... 17
F. Combat Archery Bows/Crossbows .................................................................................................. 18
G. Combat Archery Ammunition ......................................................................................................... 18
VIII. SIEGE COMBAT ............................................................................................................................ 22
A. General............................................................................................................................................. 22
B. Munitions ......................................................................................................................................... 22
C. Blow Acknowledgment ................................................................................................................... 22
D. Destroying Siege Engines. ............................................................................................................... 22
IX. ARMORED COMBAT WITH REBATED BLADES (ARMORED STEEL COMBAT) .................... 23
A. General............................................................................................................................................. 23
B. Authorizations ..................................................................................................................................... 23
C. Armor Standards .................................................................................................................................. 24
D. Weapon Standards ............................................................................................................................... 27
E. Shields .................................................................................................................................................. 28
F. Rules of Combat................................................................................................................................... 29
G. Target Areas ........................................................................................................................................ 29
H. Valid Blows ......................................................................................................................................... 30
I. Permissible Techniques......................................................................................................................... 30
J. Prohibited Techniques .......................................................................................................................... 30
K. Permissible Tournament Styles ........................................................................................................... 30
L. List field requirements ......................................................................................................................... 30
M. Marshalling Armored Steel Combat ................................................................................................... 31
O. Judges .................................................................................................................................................. 32
3
MARSHALS’ SECTION ........................................................................................................................... 35
X. PROCEDURES FOR THE AUTHORIZATION OF MARSHALS ................................................... 35
A. General Requirements ..................................................................................................................... 35
XI. PROCEDURES FOR MARSHALING WARS .............................................................................. 35
A. Before the War................................................................................................................................. 35
B. Marshal of a War ............................................................................................................................. 36
XII. MARSHALING REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................... 37
XIII. COMBAT INJURY PROCEDURES .............................................................................................. 37
XIV. GUIDELINES FOR MARSHALING ON THE FIELD ................................................................. 37
A. Preparing to Marshal Combat Activities ......................................................................................... 37
B. Marshaling Single Combat .............................................................................................................. 38
C. Marshaling Melees .......................................................................................................................... 39
XV. COMBAT AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURES ........................................................................... 40
XVI. EQUIPMENT INSPECTION GUIDELINES ................................................................................. 41
A. General Information ........................................................................................................................ 41
B. Sample Armor Inspection ................................................................................................................ 41
C. Sample Weapon Inspection ............................................................................................................. 42
D. Sample Combat Archery Inspection ................................................................................................ 43
XVII. EXPERIMENTAL WEAPONS AND MATERIALS PROCEDURES ..................................... 43
A. Experimental Weapons and Materials ....................................................................................... 43
XVIII. MARSHAL RESPONSIBILITIES, CHAIN OF COMMAND AND REPORTING ................. 44
A. Reporting Requirements .............................................................................................................. 44
XIX. PROCEDURES FOR GRIEVANCES AND SANCTIONS ........................................................... 45
A. Grievances and Disputes ................................................................................................................. 45
B. Sanctions .......................................................................................................................................... 45
XXI. GLOSSARY ........................................................................................................................................ 47
A. Armor Materials .............................................................................................................................. 47
B. Weapons .......................................................................................................................................... 48
C. Other Definitions ............................................................................................................................. 49
INDEX .......................................................................................................................................................... 52


4
INTRODUCTION
This handbook is the latest revision of a set of rules and guidelines that have been adapting and evolving
over the last fifty years. What you find within these pages reflects a vast body of experience and knowledge
gathered from across the Knowne World and compiled through the efforts of many. While the traditions and
laws of each kingdom vary, these rules represent the minimum requirements for equipment and conduct
required for participation in SCA armored combat.
There are two additions to the Marshal’s Handbook in this revision. Armored steel fighting within the
SCA is intended as an additional style allowing the further exploration of medieval combat safely within
the context of the SCA and its governing documents. Armored steel fighting will provide a venue to
attract additional population, and a series of controls allowing intermingling of a variety of groups; it is not
intended as a replacement for any current SCA activity, only as an addition.
The second addition is an accounting of the several variances which have been granted by the Board
over the years for the Kingdom of Lochac. Prior to this section being added, there was no centralized
accounting for these variances. The Society Marshal hopes that placing them here, in the Marshal’s
Handbook, will help clarify the extent of the variances granted, and, since changing those policies will
now be a matter of changing Society marshal policy, the path by which the variances can be changes will
be disambiguated.
As a marshal it is your duty to know and understand these rules and to teach and share them with the
participants we train and authorize. Be aware of changes and updates to these rules and policies and
clarifications made to your kingdom and Society standards. Frequently visit your kingdom and Society
websites to stay up-to- date and stay active.
As we gather at our events to recreate the ideals of honor and chivalry of the Middle Ages, remember
that these rules and standards are but the foundation of the fighting community, set to ensure that we may
continue to enjoy SCA combat. No book of rules can replace common sense, which must also be exercised
to keep all combatants and spectators safe. In all combat activities, safety must always be paramount.
We all participate in the SCA because we enjoy it. So, as you go about your tasks, duties, and activities,
remember to have fun and to help others do the same. The rules must be followed, work must be done, and
safety considered first above all, but always remember why we’re all here: Have fun, and be safe!
Fight with honor, fight often, and read the handbook!
/s/
Gravesend
Society Marshal
M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020 5

PARTICIPANTS’ SECTION
I. COMBAT AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS
A. General
1. All persons who wish to participate in SCA combat activities must authorize under
the Society and Kingdom-of-residence authorization procedures. SCA combat
activities are defined as armored combat, Society period fencing, combat archery
siege, and marshaling. Other martial activities clearly falling within the scope
above are also considered combat-related activities. Youth combat programs are
not supervised at the Society level, but participation in such programs requires
authorization following Kingdom-of-residence procedures.
2. Each Kingdom shall establish a procedure to authorize combatants for participation
in SCA combat-related activities. These procedures shall verify that the candidate
is familiar with the following:
a. Rules of the Lists of the SCA.
b. The Armor and Weapons standards of the SCA.
c. The Conventions of Combat for the SCA.
d. Kingdom-of-residence–specific Conventions of Combat.
e. Kingdom-of-residence–specific Armor and Weapons Standards.
3. In addition to the above requirements, candidates must demonstrate the ability to
function on the field in a manner that is safe both to themselves and to their
opponents.
4. Only a warranted or rostered authorized marshal may perform an authorization.
This authorizing marshal must witness the authorization and execute the
appropriate paperwork to ensure that the authorization is registered with the
appropriate kingdom official.
5. Authorization shall be registered with, and kept on file by, the Minister of the Lists
or another designated official of each kingdom. This office shall be responsible for
keeping properly completed waivers and maintaining the registration of
authorizations. This office shall provide the Earl Marshal with a list of all current
combat authorization cards upon request.
6. No authorization card may be issued until a properly completed Waiver is filed
with the Kingdom.
7. Signed waivers for SCA combat-related activities shall be kept on file for a period
of seven (7) years.
8. Combat authorizations may be issued for a period of time equal to the time that the
combat participant has an active waiver on file.
9. Kingdoms may issue authorizations only to persons who reside within their
established boundaries. An exception to this is allowed where a person has been
formally recognized as a subject of a kingdom in which they do not reside. Formal
recognition shall be recorded in accordance with the requirements of the SCA
Governing Documents and kingdom law and custom.
10. Kingdoms may define additional types of authorization, such as weapon forms,
field marshals, and missile combat marshals, and requirements for them, as may be
deemed necessary.
11. Valid combat authorization cards shall be accepted outside the issuing kingdom as
proof of authorization, as long as proof of a signed and active waiver is available.
Kingdoms may define additional requirements before renewing an authorization
card for a person who has moved into that kingdom from another kingdom.
12. A marshal from any kingdom may revoke the authorization card of a fighter from
any other kingdom for just and stated cause. The marshal in charge (MIC) of the
event should be notified immediately and the Earl Marshal of the fighter’s kingdom
of residence should receive a detailed report of the incident.
B. Minor Authorization
Minors (ages 14–17) may authorize with these additional requirements:
1. In order to be authorized as a combatant or marshal in adult armored combat, an
individual must have attained his or her sixteenth (16th) birthday. In order to be
authorized as a participant, combatant, or marshal in any other form of Society combat-
related activity, except youth combat, an individual must have attained his or her
fourteenth (14th) birthday.
2. No person below the age of eighteen (18) may be warranted as a group Marshal, or the
Marshal in Charge of an event.
3. The parents or guardians of the minor must witness SCA combat, discuss with a
witnessing marshal how it relates to the participation of their child, and execute a
“Minor’s Waiver and Informed Consent to Participate in SCA Combat-Related
Activities.” The witnessing Marshal must countersign the waiver.
4. Only the Earl Marshal, the Principality Marshal, or a designated deputy may authorize
the minor for SCA Combat-Related Activities.
5. At any event in which the minor is involved in SCA combat-related activities, the
minor must either have a parent or guardian present or must be in possession of a
properly executed “Medical Authorization Form for Minors.” Said Medical
Authorization Form must designate an adult present at the event as able to authorize
medical treatment in the case of an emergency.
6. Minors engaging in combat with adults shall be marked in the following manner: A
single yellow diamond no larger than 1inch (25.4 mm) but no smaller than 0.5 inch
(12.7 mm) to be placed on the front hemisphere of the helm (preferably on or near the
inspection sticker). Minors competing with adults in Rapier will have the same
diamond on the cuff of the glove of their dominant weapon hand.
II. RULES OF THE LISTS
A. The Rules of the Lists
The basic rules for SCA combat are contained in the Rules of the Lists. These rules cover
all combat within the SCA including but not limited to tournaments, non-tourney martial
field activities such as wars, combat archery, and Society period fencing. The observance of
honor and chivalry and the safety of the combatants are the overriding goals of these rules.
The following is intended to bring together the appropriate rules for conducting SCA
combat activities.
The Rules of the Lists are reprinted here from section IX.B. of the Corpora of the SCA:
1. Each fighter, recognizing the possibilities of physical injury to themselves in such
combat, shall assume unto themselves all risk and liability for harm suffered by means
of such combat. No fighter shall engage in combat unless and until they have inspected
the field of combat and satisfied themselves that it is suitable for combat. Other
participants shall likewise recognize the risks involved in their presence on or near the
field of combat and shall assume unto themselves the liabilities thereof.
2. No person shall participate in Official Combat-Related Activities (including armored
combat, period fencing, and combat archery) outside of formal training sessions unless
they have been properly authorized under Society and Kingdom procedures.
3. All combatants must be presented to, and be acceptable to, the Sovereign or his or her
representative.
4. All combatants shall adhere to the appropriate armor and weapons standards of the
Society, and to any additional standards of the Kingdom in which the event takes place.
The Sovereign may waive the additional Kingdom standards.
5. The Sovereign or the Marshallate may bar any weapon or armor from use upon the
field of combat. Should a warranted Marshal bar any weapon or armor, an appeal may
be made to the Sovereign to allow the weapon or armor.
6. Combatants shall behave in a knightly and chivalrous manner and shall fight according
to the appropriate Society and Kingdom Conventions of Combat.
M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020
7
7. No one may be required to participate in Combat-Related Activities. Any combatant
may, without dishonor or penalty, reject any challenge without specifying a reason. A
fight in a tournament list is not to be considered a challenge and therefore may be
declined and forfeit the bout.
8. Fighting with real weapons, whether fast or slow, is strictly forbidden at any Society
event. This rule does not consider approved weaponry which meets the Society and
Kingdom standards for traditional Society combat and/or Society period rapier combat,
used in the context of mutual sport, to be real weaponry.
9. No projectile weapons shall be allowed within the Lists of a tournament, nor shall any
weapons be thrown. The use of approved projectile weapons for melee, war, or combat
archery shall conform to the appropriate Society and Kingdom Conventions of Combat.
B. Applications of the Rules of the Lists
1. Application of Rule 1: “Other participants” include marshals and support personnel
whose activities bring them close to fighting in a situation where boundaries are not
clearly defined. Heralds, list pages, and similar officers who leave the field entirely
before combat begins are exempt from this requirement, as are water-bearers and
chirurgeons who remain in fixed support points outside the tournament field or battle
area. Water-bearers and chirurgeons who take part in mobile support groups within the
overall boundaries of a battle area must receive a basic orientation in field safety.
2. Application of Rule 2: The Crown and/or marshallate of each kingdom shall establish
standards and procedures for the authorization of fighters to participate in combat.
These procedures shall adhere to the combat authorization procedures in this handbook.
At kingdom option, these procedures may involve either a general authorization to
participate in armored combat or a set of separate authorization procedures for the use
of (or for combat AGAINST) specific weapons or classes of weapons.
The Crown and/or marshallate of each kingdom shall establish standards and procedures for
the authorization of combat archers and missile users to participate in combat. Kingdoms
may establish such additional limitations on the participation of minors as may be deemed
necessary. It is usual for authorizations from other kingdoms to be accepted, although
exceptions may prove necessary in the case of specific individuals.
The Crown may not simply grant an authorization, unless the recipient has successfully
completed the authorization process as delineated in Society and kingdom law.
3. Application of Rule 4: Kingdoms may apply armor and weapons standards that are
stricter than the Society standards, should they be deemed necessary, but may not
reduce or waive any Society standard.
4. Application of Rule 5: If a fighter regards an opponent’s weapon or armor as unduly
dangerous to self or opponent, he or she can request that the marshal on the field re-
inspect the item. Either fighter has the option of appealing the decision of the re-
inspection marshal to the marshal in charge and ultimately to the sovereign.
5. Application of Rule 6: Engaging in any Society combat activity with the deliberate
intent to inflict bodily harm to an opponent is strictly forbidden.
6. Application of Rule 7: No one is required to engage in SCA combat should he or she
prefer not to do so.
7. Application of Rule 8: Since fighting with real weapons is forbidden at any Society
event, threatening the use of such weapons is likewise expressly forbidden.
At the discretion of the sovereign and the MIC, recognized experts may be permitted to
present choreographed demonstrations with real weapons under strictly controlled
conditions.
No one may wear any real weapon onto the field while participating in combat or
present during combat. At the discretion of the sovereign and the MIC, an exception
may be made for marshals or other noncombatants to wear knives bonded with peace
straps.
Posing for still photographs with real weapons is permitted.
8
8. Application of Rule 9: The prohibition on thrown weapons refers to weapons thrown
in combat or thrown in a hostile manner. It does not apply to “tossing,” defined as a
gentle, short-range method of transferring or removing a tournament weapon or item
from the list field or area of combat. The use of bows and arrows, firearms, slings,
javelins, throwing axes, throwing knives, or any other projectile weapon is forbidden
within tournament lists, or in any other situation where spectators cannot be separated
from the potential line of fire by more than the effective range of the weapon.
III. CONVENTIONS OF COMBAT
A. General Information
1. All traditional SCA armored combat at SCA tourneys, wars, and other events shall be
conducted in accordance with the Rules of the Lists of the SCA, Inc., these
Conventions of Combat, and such weapon and equipment standards and event rules as
are established by the marshallate of the SCA, Inc., and individual kingdom
marshallates.
2. All kingdoms shall have as their minimum armor and weapons standards those criteria
established by the Society minimum armor and weapons standards. Each kingdom may
require additional, more extensive, and/or stricter standards.
a. All fighters, prior to combat at each and every SCA-sponsored event or fighting
practice, shall ensure that their armor and weapons are inspected by a warranted
member of the kingdom marshallate.
b. Even though a warranted member of the kingdom marshallate has inspected the
armor and weapons used by a fighter, each fighter shall accept full responsibility
for the condition of his or her own equipment. Each fighter has the obligation to
his- or herself, the marshals, and all opponents, to see that his or her equipment
meets all Society and kingdom requirements.
c. Combat archery ammunition each must be inspected individually before every
use.
i. Tubular-shafted ammunition may be inspected by the archer and use
again immediately.
ii. Fiberglass-shafted ammunition must be taken off the field and re-inspected
under the supervision of a combat archery marshal before being used again.
3. When not otherwise directed by the sovereign, the sovereign’s representative upon the
field and in all matters dealing with Society combat is the Earl Marshal, and, by
delegation, warranted members of the kingdom marshallate.
B. Behavior on the Field
1. Striking an opponent with excessive force is forbidden.
2. All fighters shall obey the commands of the marshals on the field or shall be removed
from the field and subject to disciplinary action. Disagreements with the marshals on
the field shall be resolved through the established mechanisms outlined in the
Procedures for Grievances and Sanctions of the Marshallate Procedures of the SCA,
Inc.
3. Each fighter shall maintain control over his or her temper at all times.
4. Upon hearing the call of “HOLD” all fighting shall IMMEDIATELY stop.
5. A fighter shall not enter the lists or participate in any form of SCA combat activity
while impaired by alcohol or drugs (including, but not limited to: drugs prescribed by a
licensed health care provider, over- the-counter medications, and illegal controlled
substances.)
6. Any behavior that takes deliberate advantage of an opponent’s chivalry or safety-
consciousness, or that takes deliberate unfair advantage of an opponent, is prohibited.
7. A fighter shall not deliberately strike a helpless opponent.
8. Any fighter who obtains an unfair advantage by repeatedly becoming “helpless” (for
9
example, by falling down or losing their weapon) may, after being duly warned by the
marshals on the field, be forced to yield the fight at the next occurrence of such
behavior. The onus of this is on the marshals, not on the opponent. However, the
opponent may ask the marshals to let the fight continue.
9. Grappling, tripping, throwing, punching, kicking, and wrestling are prohibited. Contact
between combatants’ bodies, shields, and weapons is expected in corps-a-corps or mêlée
situations, as such controlled contact is allowed during these engagements.
10. Deliberately striking an opponent’s head, limbs, or body with a shield, weapon haft, or
any part of the body is forbidden.
11. Grasping an opponent’s person, shield, weapon’s striking surface, or bow/crossbow is
prohibited.
12. Intentionally striking an opponent outside the legal target areas is forbidden.
13. Intentionally striking a Combat Archer’s bow/crossbow is prohibited
14. Intentionally blocking a strike or projectile with a bow/crossbow is prohibited
C. Target Areas
1. Torso: All of the body above the points of the hips, excluding the head and arms and
including the groin, shoulder blades, and the area between the neck and shoulders.
2. Face: the area between the chin and the middle of the forehead and between the ear
openings.
3. Head: The whole head and neck except the face as defined above.
4. Thighs: The leg from one inch [25.4mm} above the top of the knee to a line even with
the bottom of the hip socket.
5. Hips: Area between the bottom of the hip socket to the point of the hip (iliac crest).
6. Shoulder: From the point of the shoulder down to a line even with the top of the
underarm.
7. Arms: From the shoulder to one inch [25.4mm} above the wrist.
8. Blows that land outside the legal target areas shall not be counted, unless an illegal
target area has been intentionally placed in the path of an impending blow.
D. Combat Archery Conventions
1. Upon a hold being called, all archers must unload their weapons (crossbows may
remain cocked). Archers may nock an arrow on their bow or load their crossbow at
"make ready" (or equivalent) and may fire when "Lay on" is called.
2. Archers may have a backup weapon on them, but may not draw it until their
bow/crossbow has been safely disposed of (taken off the field, discarded in a low
traffic area, handed to another combatant, etc). Upon drawing a backup weapon to
enter combat, hands must be appropriately armored.
3. Archers may carry and use thrown weapons without need to discard their
bow/crossbow or change hand armor.
4. Archers need to be aware of what is beyond their target area to ensure that errant shots
do not endanger anyone.
5. An archer’s minimum range is dictated by ensuring that the ammunition completely
clears the bow/prod before contacting the opponent.
6. Ammunition dropped onto the ground is considered dead as if it had been fired, and
needs re-inspection.
7. Live combatants may pick ammunition off the field for re-inspection (as long as re-
inspection is allowed during the scenario) and reuse it during the same battle. Dead
combatants may clear ammunition from the field for use in future battles if scenario
rules allow.
8. Within scenario limits, ammunition may be taken from caches stored on or off the field
and from other combatants (dead or alive) with permission of the owner.
10
IV. THE USE OF WEAPONS AND SHIELDS
A. Weapons shall be used in accordance with their design. For example, spears may only be
used for thrusting, axes for striking along the edge of the blade, etc.
1. Only weapons approved for thrusting may be used for that purpose. Feinting as if to
thrust with a weapon not approved for that purpose is prohibited. Before any bout
where a thrusting weapon is used, the opponent and marshals shall be informed that
such a weapon is on the field, and the thrusting tip shall be shown to the opponent.
2. The blade of an opponent’s weapon may not be grasped at any time, nor may it be
trapped in contact with the fighter’s body as a means of preventing the opponent’s use
of the weapon. Armored hands may grasp the haft of an opponent’s weapon.
B. The striking surface of a weapon in motion may not be grasped or blocked by the hands or
limbs as a means of impeding a blow.
1. If a combatant intentionally places an illegal target area (e.g., an empty hand and or
lower leg, including the knee and foot) in the path of a blow, the combatant forfeits that
attached limb as if it had been struck in a legal target area.
2. Inadvertently bringing the hands in contact with the striking surface of a weapon in
motion, as when attempting to block a blow with another weapon, shall not be
considered to be in violation of this convention.
C. Blows repeatedly blocked by a weapon in contact with a fighter’s helm, body, or shield at the
moment of impact may, at the sovereign’s or marshal’s discretion, be considered to have
broken the blocking weapon. This will force a fighter to forfeit the fight, unless a secondary
weapon is carried or the opponent chooses to allow the fighter to rearm with another weapon.
D. A shield or weapon may be used to displace, deflect, or immobilize an opponent’s shield or
weapon, so long as such use does not endanger the safety of the combatants. A shield or haft
may be safely placed against the opponent’s body to restrict his ability to strike or defend.
E. Shields must be controlled by the hand; use of passive shields (not controlled by the hand)
will be treated as decorative armor and subject to effective blow acknowledgment.
F. A combat archer may carry and use shield or pavise; however, as long as they are carrying it,
they cannot span their weapon.
V. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF BLOWS
A. Judging the effects of blows is left to the honor of the combatant being struck by the weapon,
unless he or she relinquishes this responsibility, with the exception of clear violations of the
Rules of the Lists or the Conventions of Combat. Effectiveness of a blow may not be judged
by the opposing combatant, the marshal on the field, or other observers. Information
unavailable to the combatant being struck may be supplied by the opposing combatant or the
marshal, including blade orientation upon impact, apparent force transmitted, or apparent
location and angle of the blow’s impact based upon the observer’s angle of observation.
B. When judging the effect of blows, all fighters are presumed to be fully armored. Special
tournaments or combat rules may redefine what areas of the body are armored, and to what
extent, so long as all the participants are made aware of the special conditions prior to the
start of combat.
1. All “fully armored” fighters are presumed to be wearing a chain hauberk over a padded
gambeson, with boiled leather arm and leg defenses and an open-faced iron helm with a
nasal. The helm may be presumed by kingdom convention to include a very light chain
mail drape, permitting vision and resisting cuts by the mere touch of a bladed weapon.
a. Under this standard, an acceptable cutting blow to the face would be lighter than to
other portions of the head or body. Areas deemed illegal to strike (the wrists from 1
inch [25.4mm] above the hands; the legs from 1 inch [25.4mm] above the knees and
below) shall be considered safe from all attack.
b. The minimum effective thrusting blow to the face shall be a directed touch and the
11
maximum shall be substantially lighter than to other parts of the body.
C. An effective blow will be defined as a blow which was delivered with effective technique for
the particular type of weapon used, properly oriented, and struck with sufficient force.
2. An effective blow to the head, neck, or torso shall be judged fatal or completely
disabling, rendering the fighter incapable of further combat.
3. An effective blow from an axe, mace, polearm, greatsword, or other mass weapon,
which lands on the hip above the hip socket or strikes the shoulder inside the
shoulder socket, shall be judged fatal or completely disabling.
4. An effective blow to the arm above the wrist will disable the arm. The arm shall
then be considered useless to the fighter and may not be used for either offense or
defense.
5. An effective blow to the leg above the knee will disable the leg. The fighter must
then fight kneeling, sitting, or standing on the foot of the uninjured leg. Kingdoms
may place limitations upon the mobility of such injured fighters.
6. If a wounded limb blocks an otherwise acceptable blow, the blow shall be counted
as though the limb were not there.
D. Changes to blow acknowledgment standards may be made on a per-combat, per-scenario, or
per-tournament basis, but thereafter will revert to the standards above. Alternate
acknowledgment standards do not alter the allowed target areas, nor do they increase the
basic force level for a telling blow. All combatants must be informed of any changes to
standard blow acknowledgment before they participate in the combat.
E. When judging the outcome of a delivered blow, all fighters are expected to take into account
the nature of the weapon being used by their opponent and the location of the point of impact
of that weapon. A blow that strikes with sufficient force and proper orientation shall be
considered effective, regardless of what it hits prior to striking the combatant.
F. Sometimes a blow that would normally be accepted occurs at almost the same moment as an
event that would cause the fight to be stopped (a “HOLD” being called, the killing of the
fighter throwing the blow, etc.). If the blow was begun before the occurrence of the event that
would cause the bout to be halted, and if of sufficient force, it shall be deemed a legal blow
and acceptable. If the blow was begun after the occurrence of the event that would cause the
bout to be halted, it shall be deemed not legal and need not be accepted.
G. A blow that includes the dropping of a weapon at the moment of impact need not be counted.
(Note: If the force of the blow causes the weapon to be dropped, the rule shall be suspended.)
H. Owing to safety limits placed on combat archery equipment, and the low mass of the
ammunition, arrows and bolts strike with less force. They need not strike with the same force
as hand-held weapons for the strikes to be considered killing blows. This does not transfer the
responsibility of judging the effects of blows to the archer, as it is left to the honor of the
combatant being struck by the weapon to judge the effects.
I. Weapons (bows and crossbows) that are under-powered have not historically delivered
enough force for a fighter to notice a hit in battle. Please be aware of all the factors that
impact blow calibration for combat archery, including target area, weapon strength and
ammunition choice.
VI. ARMOR REQUIREMENTS
A. Armored Participants
All participants on the field during adult armored combat shall meet the Society minimum
armor standards for a fully armored combatant. This includes, but is not limited to, combat
archers, siege engineers and other combatants.
It does not include marshals, water-bearers, or chirurgeons. All authorized combatants and
warranted marshals shall disguise, cover, or remove modern corporate logos and sport gear
12
unless the gear is necessary for medical reasons. Special attention should be paid to
appearance and the atmosphere of a medieval event should be maintained.
B. Helms
1. Helms shall be constructed from steel which has a thickness of no less than .0625
(that is, 1/16) inch (1.6 mm), or of equivalent material. Alternative materials, such as
stainless steel, brass, bronze, or like materials, are permissible as long as the material
is structurally equivalent to 0.0625-inch-thick steel. The mass of the helm is an
important part of the protection. As such, no titanium, fiberglass, aluminum, or other
ultra-light materials may be used unless they meet the equivalent mass, strength, and
weight of steel which has a thickness of no less than .0625 (that is, 1/16) inch (1.6
mm). Proof of construction technique, materials, and equivalency must be provided
to the kingdom earl marshal (KEM) for an approval for in-kingdom use. If a spun-
metal top is to be used in the construction of the helm, it shall be a minimum of 0.0
75 inch (14-gauge or 1.905 mm) steel. The process of spinning the top thins the
metal, thereby requiring a heavier gauge.
2. All joints or seams shall be constructed in one or a combination of the following
ways, with all welds sound and rivets secure:
a. Welded on the inside and outside.
b. Welded with a single bead that extends through both surfaces.
c. Lap joints welded or brazed at the edges of both pieces.
d. Helms will be riveted with iron or steel rivets no more than 2.5 inches (63.5 mm)
apart, or with equivalent riveting techniques. Screw- and pop-type rivets, along with
other lightweight rivets, are not to be used.
3. Face guards shall prevent a 1 inch (25.4mm) diameter dowel from entering into any
of the face guard openings.
4. The face guard shall extend at least 1 inch (25.4mm) below the bottom of the chin
and jaw line when the head is held erect.
5. Bars used in the face guard shall be steel of not less than .1875 (that is, 3/16) inch
(4.8 mm) in diameter, or equivalent. If the span between crossbars is less than 2
inches (50.8 mm), .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.18 mm) diameter bars may be used.
6. All movable visors shall be attached and secured in such a way that there is minimal
chance that they will become detached or come open in normal combat use.
7. There shall be NO major internal projections; minor projections of necessary
structural components shall be padded. All metal shall be free of sharp edges. Face
guard bars or mesh should not attach to the interior of the helm, unless of structurally
superior design and workmanship.
8. All parts of the helm that might cause injurious contact with the wearer’s head shall
be padded with a minimum of .5 inch (12.7 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent
padding, or shall be suspended in such a way as to prevent contact with the wearer
during combat. Similarly, parts of the inside of the helm that might come in contact
with the wearer’s neck or body should be padded.
9. All helms shall be equipped with a chin strap or equivalent means to prevent the helm
from being dislodged or metal contacting the wearer’s face during combat. An
equivalent might be, for example, a bevor or a chin-cup suspension system. A “snug
fit” is NOT an equivalent. The chin strap shall be, at a minimum, .5 inch (12.7 mm)
in width and shall not be placed in the helm in a manner that could strangle the
wearer.
C. Eye Wear
The lenses of all eyewear shall be constructed of shatterproof industrial safety glass or
plastic. Ordinary glass lenses are prohibited. The wearing of contact lenses or “sports
glasses” is strongly recommended.
D. Neck Armor
The neck, including the larynx, cervical vertebrae, and first thoracic vertebra must be
13
covered by one or a combination of the following and must stay covered during typical
combat situations, including turning the head, lifting the chin, etc.:
1. The helm
2. A gorget of rigid material
3. A mail or heavy leather camail or aventail that hangs or drapes to absorb the force of a
blow. If the camail or aventail lays in contact with the larynx, cervical vertebrae, or
first thoracic vertebra, that section must be padded with a minimum of .25 inch (6mm)
of closed cell foam or equivalent
4. A collar of heavy leather lined with a minimum of .2 5in (6mm) of close cell foam or
equivalent
E. Body, Shoulder, and Groin Armor
1. The kidney area and the floating ribs shall be covered with a minimum of heavy leather
worn over .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding.
2. The groin must be protected to a standard equivalent to that provided by an athletic
cup or pubic protector, secured by straps, or worn in a supporter or fighting garment
designed to hold the protection in place.
3. Separate breast cups are prohibited unless connected by or mounted on an
interconnecting rigid piece, for example, a heavy leather or metal breastplate.
F. Hand and Wrist Armor:
The outer surfaces of the hand, to one inch above the wrist of both arms and including the
thumb, must be covered by one or a combination of the following:
1. A rigid basket or cup hilt with enough bars or plates to prevent a blow from striking the
fingers or the back of the hand. If a basket or cup hilt, shield basket, or center-grip
shield is used, a vambrace and or partial gauntlet shall cover the remaining exposed
portions of the hand and wrist.
2. A gauntlet of rigid material either lined with .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or
equivalent or designed to transfer potentially injurious impact to the surfaces being
grasped.
3. A gauntlet of heavy leather lined with .5 inch (12 mm) of closed-cell foam or heavy
padding. (Note: An ice hockey glove is considered to be the equivalent, but looks
blatantly modern; their use is discouraged.) Street hockey gloves are NOT equivalent,
as the padding is lighter than a regular ice hockey glove. Street hockey gloves will be
treated only as padding.
4. A shield with a shield basket or equivalent. A shield alone is NOT sufficient, since it
covers the back of the hand, but not the fingers, thumb, or wrist. A shield alone may be
considered an equivalent to full hand protection only if no part of the hand or wrist is
within 4 inches (10.2 cm) of the edge of the shield while the shield is in use.
5. Combat archers, siege engineers, and those using a thrown weapon, need only a half-
gauntlet made to the above standards for gauntlets but without finger protection.
G. Arm Armor
The elbow point and bones at either side of the elbow joint must be covered by a rigid
material underlain by at least .25 inch (6 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding.
This armor shall be attached in such a way that the elbow remains covered during combat.
A shield alone is sufficient on a side-strapped shield, if the elbow is 4 inches (10.2 cm) or
more from the edge of the shield during typical use.
H. Leg Armor
1. The kneecap, including the area one inch (25.4 mm) above and below it, and both sides
of the knee joints, must be covered by rigid material, lined by at least .25 inch (6 mm)
of closed-cell foam or an equivalent padding. This armor shall be attached in such a
way that the knee remains covered during combat.
2. Combatants should wear footwear that provides adequate protection and support for the
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terrain and activity of combat.
I. Shields
1. Shields shall be edged with leather, padding, or other covering or constructed in such a
way as to minimize damage to rattan weapons or other fighters.
2. No bolts, wires, or other objects may project more than .375 (that is, 3/8) inch (9 mm)
from any part of a shield without being padded. Rounded shield bosses are not
considered to be projections.
3. Shields may be constructed with leg(s) so that they can act as freestanding pavises
during melee combat.
a. The leg(s) used to keep the pavise standing must be at least 1.25 inches (31.8 mm)
in diameter or 1.25 inches (31.8 mm) square and be well-attached.
b. Pavises are destroyed by a single hit from siege engine ammunition. Combatants
behind the pavise are not killed. The pavise must then immediately be removed from
the field or dropped flat.
c. A pavise can be carried in a manner which does not require hand control (such as by
a shoulder strap). In this case, the fighter is not allowed to actively block with it, nor
can they use their own weapon, and if struck by a hand weapon, the blow is counted
as if the pavise was not there.
VII. WEAPONS STANDARDS
A. General
1. With the exception of the hilts, guards and pommels, no metal or non-approved rigid,
granular, or liquid material may be used in the construction of single or two-handed
weapons including spears.
2. Primary weapons used single-handed shall have a wrist strap (or equivalent restraint)
which will keep the weapon from leaving the immediate area of the user if released
during any part of a bout or combat. Restraints are not required on hafted weapons
used single-handed, or on single-handed back-up weapons.
3. Flails are expressly prohibited.
4. Mechanical devices known as “sliders,” which are used to guide or propel spears, are
prohibited.
5. All weapons shall have all cutting edges and thrusting tips marked in a contrasting
color.
6. The striking surfaces of all weapons, including the tip, shall be wrapped in a manner
that allows no rattan splinters to protrude.
7. All thrusting tips and striking heads must be securely attached to the weapon.
8. The edges and tips of all striking surfaces shall be rounded.
9. No part of a weapon shall have sharp edges or protrusions with cross-section of less
than 1.25 inch (31.8mm) in diameter. Guards, pommels, hooks, etc., shall be firmly and
securely affixed to the weapon haft.
10. It shall not be possible to force into a legal face guard, any part of a weapon which may
reasonably be expected to contact an opponent during combat more than .5 inch (12.7
mm). Rattan weapons may have a handle section which is less than 1.25 inch (31.8
mm), so long as it meets this criterion. Combat archery shafts may be thinner as long as
the head and tail meet the criteria.
11. Rattan shall not be treated in any way that will substantially reduce its flexibility (e.g.,
treated with wax, resin, fiberglass, etc.).
12. No weapon shall exceed 6 pounds (2.73 kg).
13. No missile weapons intended to simulate firearms, slings, slingstaffs, nor atlatls can be
used on the field of armored combat.
14. No “punch weapons” or thrusting weapons that have the blade or tip more
perpendicular than parallel to the grip.
15
15. No shovel handles on any thrusting weapon.
B. Single-Handed Weapons
Weapons that shall be used in one hand shall have the following requirements:
1. Single-handed weapons shall be constructed of one of the following:
a. rattan
b. rattan-cored Siloflex or Siloflex-equivalent
c. natural polypropylene round rod (maximum diameter: 1.25 inches (31.8 mm)
and shall be not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in total diameter (including tape) along its
entire length excepting the handle.
2. Rattan-cored Siloflex or Siloflex equivalent weapons shall be constructed using tubular
materials meeting ASTM standard D-2239 or the international equivalent, with a
pressure rating of 160 PSI or greater, having at least a 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) diameter on
the outside and at least .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.2 mm) walls, and having an inner core
of rattan that fills the interior of the tubular material entirely. Periodic inspection shall
be made to determine the condition of the inner core.
3. If the weapon has a head, it shall not be constructed of solely rigid materials. The head
shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. The head shall allow at least .5 inch
(12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft.
4. No weapon may have a cutting and/or smashing surface at both ends.
5. When thrusting tips are used, they shall be at least the same diameter as the shaft of the
weapon they are mounted on and have at least .75 inch (19.1 mm) of resilient material
in front of the rigid tip of the weapon providing at least .375 (that is, 3/8) inch (9.53
mm) of progressively resistant give across the face of the thrusting tip. (Note: Pressing
with the thumb into the center of the thrusting tip is not an adequate test. The give must
be across the entire face of the tip.)
6. Swords shall have a hand guard, such as a basket hilt, quillions, or equivalent.
7. Total weapon mass shall not exceed 5 pounds (2.27 kg).
C. Two-Handed Weapons
Weapons which may be used with one or two hands shall have the following requirements:
1. Weapons shall be constructed of rattan of not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in diameter
(including tape). Polearms may contain blades constructed of split rattan, so long as the
piece(s) are securely fastened to the haft.
2. The weapon shall not be excessively flexible.
shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft. The head shall allow at least .5 inch
(12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft. Semi-
rigid ultra-lightweight shaped foam heads and laminated or split rattan construction
techniques do not require .5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give, so long as their
construction imparts striking characteristics similar to an unpadded weapon constructed
of a single piece of rattan.
4. No weapon may have a cutting and/or smashing surface at both ends.
5. Thrusting tips:
a. When thrusting tips are used on rattan weapons with greater length than 7.5 feet
(2.286 m), they shall be no less than 2 inches (50.8 mm) in diameter/cross-section
and have 2 inches (50.8 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid tip of the
weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.
b. When thrusting tips are used on rattan weapons with length less than or equal to 7.5
feet, they shall be at least the same diameter as the shaft of the weapon they are
mounted on and have 1.5 inches (38.1 mm) of resilient material in front of the rigid
tip of the weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.
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(Note: Pressing with the thumb into the center of the thrusting tip is not an adequate test.
The give must be across the entire face of the tip.)
6. Weapons exceeding 7.5 feet (2.286 m) shall not be used for cutting or smashing
and shall be used for thrusting only.
7. Total weapon length shall not exceed 12 feet (3.658 m).
D. Fiberglass Spears
1. Fiberglass spears shall not have a cutting or smashing head.
2. Fiberglass spears shall be constructed with pultruded fiberglass shafts with an
outside diameter of no less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) and no greater than 1 5/16
inch (33.38 mm). Minimum manufacturer specified wall thickness shall be .125
(that is, 1/8) inch (3.2 mm) and the minimum measurable wall thickness shall be
3/32 inch (2.38 mm).
3. The end of the shaft which will have the thrusting tip attached must be covered
with a schedule-40 PVC cap with an interior diameter the same as the outside
diameter of the shaft (1.25 inches or 31.8 mm). The thrusting tip will then be
attached over this cap.
4. All fiberglass spears must have a thrusting tip that is a minimum of 2 inches (50.8
mm) in diameter/ cross-section and have 2 inches (50.8 mm) of resilient material in
front of the PVC end cap, thereby providing progressively resistant give without
allowing contact with the PVC end cap.
5. Shafts may be spliced using a fiberglass rod or tube with a sidewall of .125 inch
(3.2 mm) of the same or equivalent material, having an outside diameter of 1 inch
(25.4 mm) and a length of 8–12 inches (203–304 mm). Only two splices will be
allowed per spear shaft. Each end to be spliced shall be cut square and clean of
cracks or frayed fibers. The rod shall extend at least 4 inches (101.6 mm) into each
spliced end. One or both of these two methods shall secure the splice:
a. Epoxying both ends of the fiberglass rod before insertion.
b. Epoxying one end of the fiberglass rod before insertion and thoroughly taping
the splice over with fiber tape.
6. The butt end of the shaft shall be smooth and free of cracks or frayed fibers. The
butt shall be taped over or otherwise sealed. If a weapon is completely taped, a
marshal may require that one section be untaped enough to determine that
pultruded fiberglass has been used in the construction of the shaft.
7. Total spear length shall not exceed 12 feet (3.658 m).
E. Throwing Weapons
These weapons may be used for striking and may also be thrown in melee scenarios where
thrown weapons are allowed. Examples are thrust-and-throw javelins, axes, knives, etc.
1. Shafts shall be constructed of rattan not less than 1.25 inch (31.8 mm) in diameter
along its entire length or of two layers of Siloflex or equivalent. The outer layer shall
be 1 inch (25.4 mm) inner diameter Siloflex (1.25 inch [31.8mm] outer diameter) and
the inner layer shall be 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) inner diameter Siloflex. All Siloflex used
for throwing weapons must have a pressure rating of 160 PSI or greater. If Siloflex is
used, both ends of the shaft shall be covered with either a schedule-40 PVC cap with an
interior diameter the same as the outside diameter of the shaft (1.25 inches [31.8 mm]),
or with a rubber stopper or equivalent means to prevent the tubing from penetrating the
thrusting tip(s), fastened securely in place by tape and/or glue.
2. Thrusting tips shall be used on any tip that can be reasonably assumed to contact a
fighter when the weapon is used or thrown. Tips shall be no less than 1.25 inch
(31.8mm) in diameter/cross-section and have 1.25 inch (31.8mm) of resilient material
in front of the rigid tip of the weapon, thereby providing progressively resistant give.
shall be firmly and securely attached to the haft or handle. The head shall allow at least
.5 inch (12.7 mm) of progressive give between the striking surface and the weapon haft
17
or handle.
4. The weapon must have the owner’s name, kingdom, and branch clearly and legibly
printed on it in English characters for identification.
5. Total mass of the weapon shall not exceed 2 pounds (0.91 kg).
F. Combat Archery Bows/Crossbows
1. During inspection, all equipment must have its poundage and draw physically
measured with a ruler or other metered device and poundage scale.
2. Marshals must calibrate their bow scales regularly to be accurate at either 35 or 50
pounds, depending upon the most prevalent bow in their kingdom, as
measurements obtained with commonly-used, standard spring-type scales can vary
over time.
3. No compound bows, nor compound crossbow prods are allowed.
4. No non-Society period sights, spring/flipper rests, plunger buttons, stabilizers,
clickers, or modern string release aids may be used.
5. Bows/Crossbows must be powered solely by the flex of the limbs.
6. If both Light and Heavy bows/crossbows, by the standards as defined below, are on
the field at the same time, then all Heavy bows/crossbows must have their upper
limb (or one limb for crossbows) covered with at least 4 inches (10 cm) of red
material (tape, cloth, etc).
7. Handbows
a. A handbow’s power is measured at 28 inches (71 cm). If the bow is not designed
to be drawn at 28 inches (71 cm), then it cannot be used in SCA combat.
b. Light handbows measure 35 pounds (15.9 kg) or less at 28 inches (71 cm).
c. Heavy handbows measure 50 pounds (22.7 kg) or less at 28 inches (71 cm).
8. Crossbows
a. Crossbows are measured by inch-pounds (”#), which is calculated by taking the
poundage of the bow measured at the lock, multiplied by the distance (in inches)
from the front of the string at rest, to the front of the string when in cocked
position. A metric measurement of kilogram-centimeters (kg-cm).
b. Light crossbows measure 600”# (691 kg-cm) or less.
c. Heavy crossbows measure 1000”# (1152 kg-cm) or less.
d. No crossbows may have a modern pistol grip.
G. Combat Archery Ammunition
1. All ammunition must have the owner’s name (not initials) and kingdom displayed
clearly on it.
2. No metal can be used as ammunition construction material.
3. All ammunition has a maximum length of 28 inches (71 cm) from the back of the
head/blunt, to the string acceptor on the nock.
4. Optionally, ammunition may have fletches as long as they are securely attached and
made of a soft material. Fletches may not project farther than .5 inch (12.7 mm) from
the shaft if they are less than 1.5 inch (38.1 mm) thick.
5. Light Ammunition (for use in light bows or light crossbows only) must consist of a
fiberglass shaft, a blunt (either commercially manufactured or UHMW) and an APD
(either commercially manufactured or HDPE).
a. Fiberglass Ammunition Shafts
i. Solid pultruded fiberglass of between .25 (6.5 mm) and .375 inch
(9.5 mm) diameter.
ii. Fiberglass shall be of a good quality, defined as significant
‘bending’ pressure as applied by a marshal not causing the shaft
18
to break.
iii. The shaft must be covered from behind the blunt, to the front of
the anti-penetration device (APD), in a sturdy tear-resistant tape,
such as strapping, electrical, or duct tape.
b. Anti-Penetration Devices (APDs)
i. APDs must be attached no further than .5 inch (12.7 mm) from the
end of the arrow or bolt (including nock).
ii. APDs must be attached securely via tape, glue, cable ties, etc. The
method does not matter as long as it is securely attached and will
not come off during normal use. This will be tested by Marshals
by grabbing and pulling on the APD with moderate force while
twisting it slightly. If it detaches or moves lengthwise along the
shaft, then it fails.
iii. APDs must not have major cuts or cracks in them. If anything can
be inserted into a crack, then the APD fails.
c. HDPE APDs
i. HDPE Pipe: APD made from materials meeting ASTM D2239
(minimum of 1 inch (25.4mm) inner diameter) or ASTM D2737
(minimum of 1.25 inch (31.8mm) outer diameter) and manufactured of
PE3408, PE3608, PE3710 or PE4710 resin, or equivalent. Either 100 or
125 PSI is approved.
ii. The length of the top edge of the APD must be at least 1.25 inches (3.2
cm) if the front is cut square, or .625 (that is, 5/8) inch (16 mm) if the
front is cut at a 45 degree angle.
iii. APD may have a channel routed in the bottom, and/or cuts made in
the front and back edges for helping tape attachment.
iv. All sharp edges must be eased.
d. Commercially Manufactured APDs
i. Allowed commercial APSs: Asgard only.

ii. All other designs or manufacturing techniques must be approved in
writing by the Society Marshal’s office prior to use. Contact the Deputy
Society Marshal for Combat Archery for details for submission and
testing of experimental combat archery missiles.
iii. Commercial APDs may have only the following modifications: Cutting
the nock off flush for use on a crossbow, making small holes for helping
attachment, and roughing the interior surfaces for gluing.
e. Blunts
i. All blunts must be securely attached via tape, glue, cable ties,
etc. The method does not matter as long as it is securely
attached; however at least one piece of sturdy tear-resistant tape
must extend over the blunt and be securely attached to the shaft
on both sides. This will be tested by marshals by grabbing and
pulling on the blunt with moderate force while twisting it
slightly. If it detaches or moves lengthwise along the shaft, then
it fails. (Twisting around the shaft is okay.)
f. Commercially Manufactured Blunts
i. Allowed commercial blunts: Baldar, Fathead, and Fathead 2 only.
19
ii. All other designs or manufacturing techniques must be approved in
writing by the Society Marshal's office prior to use. Contact the
Deputy Society Marshal for Combat Archery for technical details for
submission and testing of experimental combat archery missiles.
iii. Must be of a type designed for use on fiberglass shafts (.25 inch
shaft acceptor), and can only be used with .25 inch or 6.5 mm
shafts.
iv. Commercial blunts may have no additional modifications.
v. Baldar only rules: Only the original 2-piece mold Baldar Blunt is
approved. Blunts must be attached in such a way that at least 50%
of the blunt is visible and can be inspected (the parting line visible
around the circumference of the thickest part of the blunt in the 2-
piece molds). If no parting line is seen the blunt cannot be used.
There should be no delamination along the parting line. This will
be tested by Marshals by attempting to insert a fingernail with
light force into the parting line. If the fingernail can penetrate the
blunt, then it fails
g. UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)

i. UHMW cores are constructed of at least 1.25 inches (31.8 cm)
diameter UHMW rod with a hole drilled in it to accept the shaft.
ii. The shaft hole must be at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) deep, and there must
be at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) of UHMW in front of the shaft.
iii. At least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and at most 1.25 inch (31.8 cm) of padding
(with progressive resistant give) after taping must be added in front of
the blunt and be at least the same diameter as the blunt.
iv. The head must have padding (with progressive resistant give) that
extends from the tip of the padding to at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) over
the UHMW that brings the total diameter of the head to at least 1.5
inch (3.81 mm) after taping. The front edges of the blunt must be
rounded over.
v. All sharp edges must be eased.
vi. As long as all other requirements are met, the blunt may have material
removed for aerodynamic or weight reducing purposes.
6. Heavy Ammunition (for use in heavy bows, heavy crossbows, light bows, or light
crossbows) must consist of a tubular shaft and approved head.
a. Tubular Ammunition Shafts
i. The shaft must be constructed of HDPE Pipe from materials meeting
ASTM D2239 (minimum of 1 inch (25.4mm) inner diameter) or
ASTM D2737 (minimum of 1.25 inch (31.8mm) outer diameter)
and manufactured of PE3408, PE3608, PE3710 or PE4710 resin, or
equivalent. Either 100 or 125 PSI is approved.
ii. The tail must be left solid for at least 1 inch (25.4 mm). Cuts
may be made beyond that in order to install fletches if desired
but must have holes drilled at the ends of each cut to keep the
cut from spreading. The tail may be slit if a 1 inch (25.4 mm) or
longer section of HDPE Pipe is reinserted at the end and laced in
place.
iii. A nock may be cut into the tail end but may be no deeper than .5
20
inch (12.7 mm). Wooden nocks can be installed as long as they
are securely attached by drilling and lacing with string.
b. Heads
i. Regardless of the construction method, the head must be firmly
attached by the use of tape and/or string. Marshals will check
head attachment by pulling on them with a moderate level of
force and twisting slightly. If the head shows signs of loosening,
it fails inspection.
c. Rubber Stopper Head
ci. A rubber stopper, size 6.5, is placed in the end of the tube such
that it enters the tube at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and is well
attached.
cii. Resilient padding of at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and at most 1.25
inch (31.8 mm), after taping, is then added on top of the head
and be at least the same diameter as the head.
ciii. The head must have padding (with progressive resistant give)
that extends from the tip of the padding to at least .5 inch (12.7
mm) over the rubber stopper to bring the total diameter of the
head to at least 1.5 inch (3.8 cm) after taping.
d. Baldar Blunt Head

i. Baldar blunts may be used by cutting the support fins away so
that the blunt slides over the HDPE Pipe and attaches securely.
ii. Resilient padding of at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and at most 1.25
and and be at least the same diameter as the head.
iii. The head must have padding (with progressive resistant give)
that extends from the tip of the padding to at least .5 inch (12.7
mm) over the Baldar blunt to bring the total diameter of the
iv. Any classic style of Baldar Blunt can be used in this manner,
whether 1 or 2 piece mold or designed for fiberglass or wood.
e. Crutch Tip Head
ii. A crutch tip is placed on the end of the tube such that it covers
the tube at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and is well attached.
iii. Resilient padding of at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) and at most 1.25
and be at least the same diameter as the head.
iv. iii. The head must have padding (with progressive resistant
give) that extends from the tip of the padding to at least .5 inch
(12.7 mm) over the crutch tip to bring the total diameter of the
v.
Ensure there is no metal in the crutch tip, as no metal may be
uses in ammunition construction.
f. Tennis Ball Head
i. A tennis ball is placed at the end of the tube and attached via
tape and/or string. The ball shall not be perforated as this leads
to it getting dirt/water inside of it.
ii. Regulation tennis balls may be used as ammunition heads, as is,
with the following restrictions: Ball must weigh less than 3
ounces (85 grams). Ball must not be covered in tape. (Dyes or
stains may be used to change the color)
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7. Fellwalker Bolts
a. The “Fellwalker design” is approved for crossbows only (heavy and light)
b. The shaft is of solid fiberglass of between .25 inch (6.5 mm) and .375 (that
is, 3/8) inch (9.5 mm) diameter. Fiberglass shall be of good quality, defined
as significant bending pressure as applied by a marshal not causing the
shaft to break.
c. The core is made from UHMW rod of at least 1.25 inches (31.8 mm)
diameter with a hole drilled in it to accept the shaft.
d. The shaft hole must be at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) deep, and there must be at
least 1 inch (25.4 mm) of UHMW in front of the shaft.
e. The striking surface must have at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) and at most 1.25
inches (31.8 mm) of padding (with progressive resistant give) after taping
and be at least the diameter of the blunt.
f. The head must have padding (with progressive resistant give) that extends
from the tip of the padding to at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) over the UHMW
that brings the total diameter of the head to at least 1.5 inch (3.8 cm) after
taping.
g. The tail end must have a disk of UHMW installed that is at least 1.25
inches (31.8 mm) diameter, at least .5 inch (12.7 mm) thick, and drilled at
least .25 inch (6.5 mm) deep to accept the shaft. It must be attached
securely via tape, glue, cable ties, etc. The method does not matter as long
as it is securely attached and will not come off during normal use. This will
be tested by Marshals by grabbing and pulling on the APD with moderate
force while twisting it slightly. If it detaches or moves lengthwise along the
shaft, then it fails.
h. The shaft must be covered from behind the blunt, to the front of the anti-
penetration device (APD), in a sturdy tear-resistant tape, such as strapping,
electrical, or duct tape.
i. All sharp edges must be eased.
VIII. SIEGE COMBAT
A. General
Siege engines or structures may be used in combat during melees and wars in accordance
with the rules set forth in the Siege Engines Handbook.
B. Munitions
1. Siege-class munitions are denoted by being primarily yellow and include ballista bolts
and rocks (1-pound [0.45 kg] foam or 4-tennis-ball clusters).
2. Small-arms munitions include single tennis balls and tube shafted combat archery
arrows and bolts.
C. Blow Acknowledgment
1. A blow from siege class ammunition to any legal target area shall be judged fatal or
completely disabling.
2. Blows from siege class ammunition to shields shall be judged fatal or completely
disabling to the bearer of the shield unless otherwise specified by scenario rules.
3. Hand-held weapons struck by siege class munitions shall be considered destroyed.
4. Small-arms munitions fired from siege engines shall be treated as combat archery
projectiles.
5. Siege munitions are considered spent upon striking a target, the ground, or a battlefield
structure.
D. Destroying Siege Engines.
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1. Fighters shall stay clear of moving parts and, when possible, approach siege
engines/structures from the side.
2. Striking or thrusting siege engines/structures with hand-held weapons is strictly
prohibited.
3. Siege engines may be destroyed by placing a hand-held weapon on the engine/structure
and declaring “this weapon is destroyed,” or by being struck by siege-class munitions
from another siege engine.
4. Siege engine crews are fully armored combatants and should be treated as would be
any other fighter on the field.
5. If fighting occurs within 5 feet (1.524 m) of an engine that is cocked or loaded, a hold
shall be called and the engine shall be declared destroyed and removed from the
combat area and made safe.
IX. ARMORED COMBAT WITH REBATED BLADES (ARMORED STEEL COMBAT)

As this new discipline differs significantly from existing Society armored combat, kingdoms wishing to
start programs must submit a plan to the Deputy Society Marshal for Armored Combat with Rebated
Blades, detailing how they intend to implement their program, and who will manage it at its outset. This
requirement is to ensure that new programs in this area set up by differing kingdoms maintain as much
fidelity as possible to the original intent of the program. There are several aspects to this discipline (NO
thrusting, allowed weapons and required armor, blow calling by judges instead of combatants, and combats
to multiple good blows as examples) which differ from traditional SCA armored combat. Implementing
this new discipline will require more centralized control until such time as it establishes its own culture and
identity on an inter-kingdom basis. The DSM for this discipline will review the proposals with the Society
Marshal, and the Society Marshal will approve or disapprove each new program.
A. General
Armored steel fighting within the SCA must follow all policies and procedures outlined in this document,
as well as all relevant policies contained in the Rules of the Lists and the additional rules established by the
Kingdoms. Generally speaking, this section outlines the standards that might differ from the policies and
procedures outlined in the Rules of the Lists, such as differing minimum standards in armor.
1. All Combatants will ensure that their combat equipment is in safe, good working order and meets
the specifications set forth in this document.
2. An authorization shall be completed prior to engaging in this activity. Authorizations are not
required for designated practices for instruction and training purposes. Authorization requirements
are described in section IX.B
3. Should the inspecting marshal fail a weapon or armour, the owner of the equipment may appeal to
the Armoured Steel Combat. MIC. The MIC’s decision is final for that day.
a. The decision of the Armoured Steel Combat. MIC can be appealed to the Kingdom
Deputy of Armoured Steel Combat.
4. Combatants, as directed by the Rules of the Lists shall:
a. Armor themselves to at least the minimum standard described in section IX.C
b. Use only those weapons as permitted in this style of combat.
c. Upon hearing the call of “HOLD” all fighting shall IMMEDIATELY stop.
d. Obey all of the “Conventions of Combat” outlined in the Marshal’s Handbook, unless
differing procedures are specifically outlined in this document.
B. Authorizations
Unless otherwise described below, authorizations shall follow the requirements and specifications outlined
in above in Marshal’s Handbook.

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1. This is a separate form of combat. Both Longsword and Arming Sword will require separate
authorizations upon the list.
2. Authorization is not required for practice and training at SCA official practices.
3. Prior to authorization the fighter must show a clear understanding of the rules and conventions for
Armoured Steel fighting.
4. The authorization shall be conducted as follows:
a. 2 marshals and 1 experienced combatant must be present
b. The authorization shall be a two-phase system
i. Phase one combat using rattan weapons
ii. Phase two using steel weapons
iii. The length of these phases shall be at the discretion of the authorizing marshals
c. The combat shall be non-stop (i.e., without stopping to call blows)
d. The fighter must demonstrate a level of safety, control and proficiency
e. The fighter must demonstrate familiarity with the rules and follows the instructions of the
Marshals.
f. “Can take a blow and can give a blow”
i. Demonstrate comfort and composure when being struck
ii. Demonstrate sufficient technique to be able execute attacks which land in scoring
zones with proper blade orientation.
C. Armor Standards
The construction of armor shall explicitly meet the standards as outlined below. The minimum armor
standards are designed to allow for recommended protection; combatants are encouraged to armor to the
level they feel safe beyond the minimum standards. The protective equipment has to provide reliable
protection to the head, neck, spine and joints in any body position.
1. Helms: Shall be of welded or riveted construction with a minimum of 12-gauge mild steel
thickness or equivalent protection from other materials (i.e. stainless steel or spring steel).
Additionally, helms:
a. Shall have no internal protrusions which could cause injury to the wearer.
b. Shall be padded in such a manner as to provide progressive give under the force of a blow
without resulting in injury to the wearer. Foam/padding and a suspension system are two
examples.
c. Shall have a chin strap, which ensures its stability, eliminating any possibility that it may
fall off or come loose during combat.
d. Shall not have an opening in excess of the following:
i. For grill style openings, the maximum shall be ¾ inch by 1 1/2 inch or have an
open area not to exceed 1.125 square inches.

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ii. For horizonal oculariums (historical style) openings, the maximum shall be ½ inch
by 2 1/4 inch or have an open area not to exceed 1.125 square inches

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iii. Combatants may use shatter proof glasses (Meet ANSI Z87.1-2003 high-impact
standards) where the helm does not meet the requirements for these openings at
the discretion of the inspecting Marshal.
e. If a visor is used it shall be held in place by a positive system that does not allow it to
become open or dislodged during combat.
2. Neck Armor:
a. Cervical vertebra shall be protected by rigid material with padding under it.
b. Note: an aventail, camail, or equivalent alone may be insufficient based on the fit of the
helm. Combatants are cautioned that additional protection may be required.
3. Torso: Shall be covered by rigid material and padding. The chest, sides and back (including the
spine) shall be covered with rigid material.
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4. Hips: The point of the iliac crest (i.e., top of the hip bone) needs to be covered by rigid material.
5. Groin: Shall be protected by gender specific, appropriately constructed rigid material. Due to the
nature of groin protection the commonly produced mundane protectors are recommended.
6. Shoulders: Shall be protected by rigid material, including the collar bones and the shoulder joints.
7. Forearm: Shall be protected (i.e. the use of a vambrace) with rigid material along the radius and
ulna bones from where the elbow cop ends and where the gauntlet begins. Padding is also
required.
8. Hands: Shall be protected by rigid, mitten style gauntlets. Gauntlets shall completely cover the
hand and the cuff of the gauntlet shall extend a minimum of one inch above the condyle of the
wrist.
a. Fingered gauntlets are prohibited without the use of supplemental protection, i.e. hand
shields or baskets.
b. A shield would meet the requirements for that hand protection.
9. Elbow and Knee: Shall be protected with rigid material. The armor shall be constructed in such a
fashion that the metal cannot contact the joint under force of blow. The three points of the joint
must be protected.
10. Thighs and Shins: Shall be protected with rigid material.
11. Foot: Shoes or boots which cover and protect the entire foot are required. Sneakers and cleats are
prohibited. Combatants should wear footwear that provides adequate protection and support for the
terrain and activity of combat.
12. Rerebraces (armor for the upper part of the arm) are not required, but strongly recommended. Cut
resistant material is required. An Arming Coat or Gambeson would meet this requirement.
13. There shall be a 10-foot appearance rule in effect. The means that the combatant shall not have
visible mundane equipment from 10 feet.
Rigid is defined as a single or combination of materials which provide stiff and unyielding protection from
the impact of the weapons being used (i.e. no injury resulting from being struck from the weapons where
the armour and weapon were used as intended.)
Padding can be in the form of a gambeson or modern materials.
D. Weapon Standards
1. General
1. The only permitted weapons are steel constructed longswords (bastard swords) and arming swords
(broad swords and saber style).
2. Swords from a reputable supplier are recommended, and they must meet the minimums outlined in
IX.D.2 Should a marshal have a question about a weapon it may be subjected to the following:
a. Spring test. Can the weapon be bent over the knee (3 inches?) without permanent
distortion (returns/springs back to straight or true).
b. Strike Test- Marshal strikes a steel object (could be a helmet, could be a block of steel)
with a reasonable degree of force to make sure weapon doesn't shatter.
3. Weapons shall be in good condition with the edges having been rounded, burrs removed and no
chips or dents that compromise the integrity of the weapon.
4. Swords may have basket hilts. In conjunction with rigid constructed demi-gauntlets. Baskets shall
be constructed to provide all of the protection required of a gauntlet.
5. Arming Swords shall have a lanyard to keep them from leaving the fighters person.
6. The cross guard of all weapons shall not extend more than 35 MM from the gauntlet. This is to be
measured as show in the diagram below.

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7. The following weapons are prohibited:
a. Weapons with a tip less than 20 mm
b. Axes (1 Hand or 2 handed)
c. Maces
d. Polearms
e. Falchions
f. Katanas
g. Any weapon may be rejected for cause by the inspecting marshal.
2. Weapon minimum standards
Arming Sword/ Broad Sword: Long sword/ Bastard Sword:
• Max Weight 1.7 kg • Max Weight 2.3 kg

• Minimum Length 72cm • Minimum Length 100cm
• Max Length 100cm • Max Length 140cm
• Min. Handle length 12cm • Min. Handle length 20cm
• Max. Handle length 20cm • Max. Handle length 40cm
• Blade thickness min 2mm • Blade thickness min 2mm
• Tip diameter 20mm • Tip diameter 20mm
Additional requirements: Additional requirements:

• Arming sword/Side Sword style only • European 2H/Long Sword styles only
E. Shields
1. General
Shields shall be no more than 23. 5 inches wide and no taller than 30 inches. Shields shall be appropriately
edged to prevent splinters, metal shavings, or debris that may fit through the face plate of a combatant.
The edge of the shield must be maintained. Hand protection behind the shield shall equal gauntlet and
forearm protection as stated above. There is no minimum weight for shields. All bucklers will remain
within the above listed standard.
2. Shield minimum standards
Bucklers: Shields:

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• Max size – 16 inches • Max Height 30”
• Minimum edge thickness 4 mm • Max Width 23.5”
• Made from either: • Minimum edge thickness 4 mm
o Wood with leather/rawhide • Made from either:
covering o Wood with leather/rawhide covering
o Aluminum blank o Aluminum blank
o Plastic ¼” o Plastic ¼”
o Steel with rolled protective edge o Steel with rolled protective edge (4mm
(4mm roll) roll)
F. Rules of Combat
1. All combat shall be fought in duel/singles style of tournament.

2. Tournaments shall be conducted in one of the approved formats discussed in section IV.D.
3. Combatants may recognize a blow by saying “good.”
a. Judges will immediately add that blow to their tally.
4. Grappling, kicking, punching, striking with the shield and other forms of combat not expressly
stipulated herein are disallowed. It is understood, however, that corps-a-corps and other contact is
likely.
5. The Marshal’s Handbook states any person on the list, spectator, or combatant may call “hold.” It
will be immediately amplified by all persons in and around the list field. Combatants will
immediately assume a non-aggressive posture and await the instructions of the marshal.
6. A failure of any piece of equipment immediately stops the combat. Combatants will be given a
reasonable amount of time (not to exceed 1 min) to repair, replace or exchange their equipment. If
they are unable to answer the call, they will forfeit that bout.
7. Should a combatant lose their balance and falls, trips or is otherwise compromised the fight shall
be stopped. This will not provide an unfair advantage to the compromised fighter. For example, if
a combatant struck an opponent and the opponent loses their balance, the blow is counted.
8. Combatants shall behave in a knightly and chivalrous manner and shall fight according to the
appropriate Society and Kingdom Conventions of Combat.
9. Judges and marshals have the final say of what occurred upon the field, appeals and other
questions shall be handled within the policies and procedures outlined in the Marshal’s handbook.
10. Fighting at barriers and other forms of deed are all allowed, if conducted within the confines of the
Rules of the Lists and the rules outlined herein.
11. Fighters may have to undergo a series of challenges to earn advancement upon the list.
12. Specifically forbidden at this time are:
a. All unarmed, martial art techniques.
b. All mass weapons including but not limited to: pole weapons, spear, axe, mace, bar mace
and other weapons that rely on mass to effect killing efficiency on the battlefield.
c. Melee
d. Half-swording techniques
G. Target Areas
1. All valid blows will be targeted at the head and torso of the combatant. Arms one inch above the
condyles of the wrist are valid. A valid blow 1 inch above the knee cap of the combatant’s
opponent shall be considered valid.
2. A blow striking non-counted (hands and 1 inch above the knee and below) areas shall not be cause
to stop a fight unless it results in an injury. (an injury will require a root cause to determine if the
armour failed to protect or the nature of the blow was the determining factor. In either case action
by the marshal is required.) Blows striking non counted areas shall not be considered as a valid
counted blow.
3. Strikes to the groin, neck, and throat of a combatant are valid, however combatants should exercise
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caution when striking into these areas.
H. Valid Blows
1. A valid blow will be considered a cut, unimpeded or the intent of the blow not significantly
diminished by defensive action, striking only upon the edge of the sword.
2. The blow is thrown with a similar technique as would have been used to cause injury, but with a
force that is deemed acceptable for sports competition.
3. Three joints must be employed in the delivery of the blow (wrist, elbow and shoulder are a prime
example).
4. Longsword blows require both hands on the grip to be scored.
I. Permissible Techniques
1. Cutting blows to the opponent’s target areas (as defined above) delivered with the cutting edge of
the weapons.
2. Blocking the opponent’s blows with a shield or a blade.
3. Pushing or pressing the opponent with a shield or shoulder.
4. Hitting with the plane of a shield
5. Repulsion of a blade, a shield, or opponent’s arms and hands with the shield’s plane or the shield’s
edge.
6. Hooking the opponent’s shield with your shield.
7. Overlapping of the opponent’s shield with your shield
J. Prohibited Techniques
1. Thrusting with the blade of the weapon (all thrusts).

2. Punching with the edge of the shield.
3. Striking a disarmed opponent, no weapon in hand.
4. Blows aimed at the opponent’s non-counted area.
5. Blows aimed at fallen opponents or those rising to a standing position.
6. Blows delivered with your head.
7. Kicking or kneeing your opponent.
8. Back heels, wrestling throws and clinches.
9. Punches and elbow strokes.
10. Blows delivered with the hilt or pommel of a weapon.
11. Holds of the opponent’s body, head, limbs, using hands or shield, as well as grabbing his
equipment (including a sword and a shield) with your hands
12. At the Marshalls discretion, any other technique deemed substantially unsafe.
K. Permissible Tournament Styles
The follow are the tournament styles which are currently approved, which are more fully described in
section O.2. below:
• Gallery
• Race to x (judged or called) no reset
• Race to x (judged or called) reset after each point
• Timed – counted blows judged only
• Set number of blows
L. List field requirements

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The list field must be a square with a side dimension of 20 to 25 feet.
1. List fields shall be marked clearly on the ground (i.e. with paint, chalk or tape as examples). The
marshals stop the fight as the fighters approach the defined boundary.
2. A safety zone of 10 feet shall extend out in all areas where spectators are allowed. The safety zone
is not optional. A rope or rail boundary not less than 3 feet high shall be used.
M. Marshalling Armored Steel Combat
As a general matter, marshals are in charge of enforcing rules and monitoring safety during fights. They
31
are also responsible for inspecting weapons and armor before each fight. Judges are responsible for
counting blows during fights.
N. Marshals
Marshals have the sole responsibility of safety for the list, combatants and judges. Marshals shall not
concern themselves with adjudicating blows. Marshals will observe the fighters for equipment integrity
and safe behavior. Marshals shall meet a minimum training and authorization standards outlined below.
1. Marshal Training Requirements
Each kingdom participating in Armored Steel Combat must develop a training program to ensure
familiarity with these rules, and issue separate warrants for Armored Steel Combat marshals
2. Event Marshals
The MIC and the Field Marshals may also be competitors.

a. Marshal in Charge
Responsible for overseeing all of the fighting activities and resolve all appeals. Ensure that all
aspects of the fighting activities adhere to the standards.
b. Field Marshals
Will ensure that the rules and conventions are followed. Will issue warnings and penalties as
described herein.
3. List Oversight
Field Marshals shall ensure that he combat is conducted in accordance with the rules and
conventions for Armoured Steel Combat. The Field Marshal shall administer punitive actions as
follows
a. A warning will be issued at the Fields Marshals discretion.
b. Sanctions will be accessed using the following criteria as guidance.
i. Dropping a weapon will result in a 2-point penalty.
ii. Not engaging in combat (actively denying engagement for a period of time). – 2-
point penalty
iii. Voluntarily stepping out of the list area – 2-point penalty
iv. Failure to obey the commands of the Field Marshal - 3-point penalty
v. Conduct unbecoming a competitor in the list. – 5-point penalty
c. Disqualification sanction imposed on a fighter for gross violation of the rules. It shall be
stated in in the marshal’s report. This sanction is automatically reviewed by the Marshal
in Charge.
i. This sanction may be imposed for a single fight or for the remainder of the
fighting activities for the event. Longer suspensions require review and approval
from the Kingdom Earl Marshal/Deputy Earl Marshal for Armoured Steel
Combat. Examples are as follows:
• Using Prohibited Techniques which put a combatant in significant risk of
injury – i.e. the use of a thrust.
• Injuring the opponent due to the use of a prohibited fighting technique(s)
or striking a no scoring area.
• Conflicts with the marshals or Judges. Insults to the opponents or
disrespectful behavior towards them, as well as other parties of the
competition.
ii. Disqualifications shall be reviewed by the Kingdom Deputy Marshal of Armoured
Steel Combat to determine if further action is warranted.
O. Judges
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Judges have the sole responsibility of evaluating fighter’s blows. Judges must be specifically trained to
evaluate that a combatant has provided a blow, thrown with intent, edge on and is unimpeded by any
activity of the combatant answering the blow. If they see an unsafe condition, they are required to call
hold as is normal within the Rules of the List, SCA Inc. Judges meet a minimum training standard.
1. General
a. Judges shall take positions in the list against the outer containment rope or barrier in the
corner.
b. A judge may move along each side that forms the corner he or she start in.
c. Clickers must be used for counting blows
d. Before a fight the Marshal goes to a fighter and asks which judges will be counting blows
landing on that fighter and repeat with the second fighter. This is to ensure that that the judges
are aligned correctly.
e. The judges for each fighter shall be positioned catty corner (opposite corner) from one another.
f. Judges shall not talk with each other until the scores have been recorded.
g. At the conclusion of the bout judges shall return to their corner where a MoL will go to each
judge and record the score.
2. Counting Blows
a. There will be a minimum of 2 judges counting valid blows landing on each fighter.
b. Valid blows are defined above (section IX.H)
c. During each fight click once for each blow landed on the fighter you are watching.
d. A valid blow is valid no matter the style of tournament.
e. “Don’t count noise” Sight is the determining factor in judging valid blows.
f. Watch the fighter on whom you are counting blows landing without getting distracted by the
fight itself.
g. Judges need to move with the fight in order to get the best view. A judge may move all the
way down each side of the safety zone from the corner they started in.
h. Fighters will be designated as “Fighter 1 and 2” or “the Red fighter and the Blue fighter) for
example.
i. Marshals should consider using arm bands for the fighters and judges – fighter 1 would have a
blue armband as would the two judges assigned to him in order to make it clear who is
counting for whom.
3. Tournament Styles
a. Race to X without resetting (judged or called) - the Marshal will tell the judges and crowd that
the fight is a race to “5” (or “10”, etc.) As soon as one judge has counted that number of blows
landed on the fighter they are watching, he or she will call the number of blows struck, “five”
for example, and combat will stop.
b. Race to X with resets - Combat will stop and reset each time a valid blow is struck. This
continues until the predetermined number of blows is counted by a judge.
c. Timed - Counted blows judged only. A judge will click the counter each time he or she sees a
valid blow land on their combatant. This continues until time is called. Scores are reported to
the MOL.
i. A person, who has no other task during the bout, will be designated to use a stopwatch
or other device, such as a phone, to keep time for these fights. i.e. A videographer
cannot keep time, nor can a judge.
d. Set number of blows - Each combatant can throw a set number of blows (for example, 20);
after a combatant throws the pre-determined number of blows, he or she can only defend.
i. Judges count the valid blows landing on the combatant they are watching.
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ii. Two additional persons, who have no other task during the bout, will be designated to
count the number of blows thrown by a given combatant. A hold shall be called when
the designated number of blows has been reached.
e. Gallery - In this tournament style the winner of a fight is determined by a gallery. A gallery
will be comprised of segments of the populace attending. For example: all ladies, all peers, all
children, etc.
i. The gallery shall select a spokesperson to report the results.
ii. The gallery shall have 1 minute to announce the victor.
iii. It is expected that this way of determining a victor is 100% subjective.
4. Training
a. Judges must read and be familiar with the conventions and rules for Steel Fighting.
b. Currently judges are doing on-the-job training. New Judges can be paired with experience
judges to provide experience and training.
c. It has been found that when experienced judges work with new judges, they come to
approximately the same score after a few example bouts. It helps when the marshal/MC has
fighters show what a valid blow looks like and runs a sample set of fights for the judges to learn
from.
d. There will be judging sample videos online to help in the training of judges.
5. Equipment
a. Tally Counters/Clickers - these can be purchased at amazon.com. They are easily found by
searching for “4-digit tally counter”
b. Score Cards
Score Cards shall be used to record the outcome of combat. The following is an example.
Scorecard Round __________
Fighter 1__________________________________ Score _ ______ W/L _____
Judge __________________ Score ____ Judge _______________ Score ____
Fighter 2__________________________________ Score _ _______ W/L _____
Judge __________________ Score ____ Judge ________________ Score ____
a. Armbands for fighters if this is decided to be used (Red and Blue, for example)
b. Judges’ tabards, if used should match the arm bands in color.
c. Other field equipment needed includes: list paint, safety zone fence, shade, table, cover, water
cooler, cups, sign in sheets, notepad, pens, chairs, squeeze bottles; it is also good to have: pickles,
pretzels, electrolytes.

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MARSHALS’ SECTION
X. PROCEDURES FOR THE AUTHORIZATION OF MARSHALS
A. General Requirements
There are three near-equal priorities in marshaling; safety, fair witness, and
showmanship. Overemphasizing any one of these at the expense of the others will tend
to make the fighting less enjoyable for everyone (although, if you must go overboard on
one, pick safety).
1. A marshal may be authorized after demonstrating the ability to oversee combat,
judge a fighter’s authorization, and inspect weapons and armor.
2. Unless warranted or rostered by the Earl Marshal as an officer of the kingdom, a
marshal may not be the marshal-in-charge (MIC) of an event or sign the paperwork
to authorize fighters.
3. Kingdoms may have other types of Marshals other than Authorized Marshals (local
Knight Marshals, Constables, etc.) as they see fit. These individuals may be
warranted or rostered by the Earl Marshal of the Kingdom. However, unless the
marshal has undergone a Marshal’s Authorization, they shall not give final approval
of the suitability of weapons or armor, or be involved in the authorization of
combat participants.
4. Only the Earl Marshal or designated Deputy Earl Marshal(s) may perform a
Marshal’s Authorization. They must witness the authorization and execute the
appropriate paperwork to ensure that the authorization is registered. At a minimum,
a Marshal’s Authorization shall include the following:
5. The candidate must have a good working knowledge of the Rules of the Lists, the
Society Conventions of Combat, and any additional kingdom rules or conventions.
a. The candidate must be willing to enforce the Rules of the Lists, the
Society Conventions of Combat, and any additional kingdom rules or
conventions.
6. The candidate must have a good working knowledge of the Society minimum
armor and weapons standards and any additional kingdom armor and weapons
standards.
7. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to conduct an inspection of armor and
weapons for use in combat.
8. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to conduct an inspection of combatants.
9. The candidate must demonstrate the ability to safely control SCA combat, whether
this is single combat, team combat, general melee, or part of a war environment.
10. The term “Knight Marshal” applies to the marshal of a branch. This title of office is
used regardless of whether the marshal is a belted fighter; in fact it is used whether
or not the branch marshal is an authorized fighter.
11. All warranted or rostered marshals shall be members of the Society for Creative
Anachronism Inc.
XI. PROCEDURES FOR MARSHALING WARS
A. Before the War
1. The general rules under which the war will be conducted, compromises between
conflicting kingdoms’ standards, and the scenario limits for each planned battle
shall be negotiated and agreed to in writing in advance by the authorized
representatives of all belligerent groups involved. The rules and scenario limits
shall be published in the appropriate newsletters. For inter-kingdom wars, notices
shall be published according to SCA publication policy by the groups involved.
This publication should take place at least thirty (30) days prior to the event. In
addition, copies of all of the rules and agreements shall be available on-site, as a
handout, for people who do not receive (or did not read) the newsletters. Armor and
weapons standards shall default to the established Society minimum standards
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unless otherwise specified in the event rules and scenario limits.
2. Each side in a battle shall provide a reasonable number of trained and experienced
marshals. If not enough marshals are available, the sides should arrange for a draft
from their armies.
3. All marshals should be separately briefed prior to the meetings of all participants.
(They should also attend the group briefing.) Emphasis at this briefing should be on
enforcing the rules and scenario limits for each battle and on preventing accidents
that could arise from hazards related to the scenario limits and to the actual terrain.
There should be an understanding among the marshals regarding the rules and
scenario specifics and any possible safety issues that may arise. At inter-kingdom
events the differences between the attending kingdoms should be discussed and
compromises and clarity in the rules and scenarios regarding those differences
should be worked out.
4. All participants shall be gathered to hear the rules and the scenario limits explained
to them. The event stewards and/or the marshals should answer their questions. If
the scenario limits vary radically from battle to battle, this procedure should be
repeated before each battle.
5. Equipment inspection must take place before combat starts, with particular
emphasis on any modifications that have been made in the process of making
compromises between conflicting kingdom standards.
B. Marshal of a War
1. A supervising marshal (marshal in charge) shall be chosen for each war (and
possibly for each battle, if the MIC for the war is fighting in the battles or otherwise
prevented from being present).
a. The marshal-in-charge shall be responsible for the activities of the marshals
in his charge.
2. The marshal-in-charge for a particular battle may not participate in the battle as a
combatant.
3. When “Hold!” is called, all fighting shall cease.
a. Fighters shall drop to one knee (if possible) where they stand.
4. Conversations relating to the conduct of the battle are not permitted between
combatants.
5. Changes of position/location are not permitted, unless ordered by a marshal.
6. If movement away from a boundary of a hazard is necessary, the fighters shall
maintain their relative positions and distances.
7. To end a hold, the marshal-in-charge will call “All rise!” (or “Rise if you’re able”
or some other equivalent statement). When the combatants have resumed their
guard, the marshal-in-charge will call “Lay on!” to signal the resumption of the
fight.
8. “Hold!” will normally be called only for broken armor, lost tempers, injuries, safety
concerns, outsiders wandering onto the field, fighters about to wander off it, or to
enforce the rules and scenario limits.
9. “Hold!” should not be called for dropped weapons, fighters who have slipped and
fallen (unless they are in danger of injury), or the near approach of a fighter to a
boundary where there are neither spectators nor any natural hazards, such as cliffs.
10. Marshals have the preemptory authority to remove from combat and from the field
any combatant who violates the rules or scenario limits or who performs any unsafe
or dishonorable act. Such removal may be discussed during the battle only if the
marshal permits it. The marshals’ ruling may be appealed to the Marshal in Charge.
11. Marshals have the authority to regulate the movement of non-combatants on and
near the field and to control the location of spectators.
12. Those marshals who are responsible for marshaling wars or large melees may use
alternative means to signal “Hold” or “Lay on,” as long as all fighters and marshals
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know and understand the alternative signaling system. Marshals may use whistles,
air horns, or other such devices.
XII. MARSHALING REQUIREMENTS
A. When combat archery is present on the field all marshals, heralds, etc. on the field must
wear protective shatterproof eyewear, such as safety glasses meeting the ANSI Z 87.1
standard or better.
B. A buffer zone needs to be provided between the edges of the battlefield and spectators at
all times. This needs to be increased when combat archery is included. The marshal-in-
charge must ensure that it is a safe distance (it should not be possible to hit a spectator,
either with direct fire or with a bounced arrow), taking into account the type of scenario,
to minimize the chances of deflected shots traveling into the spectators. Physical barriers
may eliminate the need for a buffer zone or lessen the distance needed.
XIII. COMBAT INJURY PROCEDURES
A. When an injury occurs on the field, it should always be remembered that the primary
concern is getting to and assisting the injured party. Secondary to this objective, but no
less important, is the safety of persons entering the field to help and the well-being of
anyone already on the field. (For example, fighters standing around in armor in the sun
could be subject to heat problems.)
B. All injuries that require hospitalization or similar care, include a period of
unconsciousness, or may require future medical care need to be reported to your
Kingdom Earl Marshal within 24 hours of the incident. Include all available details in
the report.
C. In the event of an emergency, the marshals shall cooperate with any authorized persons
responding to the emergency and keep the area clear of would-be spectators.
D. In the event of any suspected injury on the field, the marshal shall halt all fighting in the
area and determine the proper course of action. The hold may be a local hold as long as
the safety of the injured person can be maintained. The overall situation should be
assessed, and, as the injured party is tended to, every effort shall be made to release as
much of the field as possible so that combat may proceed.
E. If the injured person is conscious, they may be asked if they would like assistance. No
conscious person will be forced to accept treatment without his or her consent. No non-
combatant shall enter the combat area until summoned by a marshal.
F. A marshal shall call for assistance if they suspect that a participant is experiencing more
than momentary distress. It is an extremely serious matter to delay the application of
first aid when it is needed, and marshals who ignore injuries may be subject to
revocation of their authorization to supervise combat-related activities.
G. No one may remove an injured fighter from the field without the consent of the event
marshal-in-charge or an appointed deputy.
H. Any immediate and significant problems associated with an injury on the field shall be
reported to the kingdom Earl Marshal.
XIV. GUIDELINES FOR MARSHALING ON THE FIELD
The guidelines outlined in this section are not rigid requirements, but are placed here in an
attempt to help clarify and to provide examples of acceptable methods and procedures.
A. Preparing to Marshal Combat Activities
As marshal-in-charge, you are responsible for organizing the marshaling. This does not
mean that you have to do it all yourself.
Things that need to be done prior to all combat activities:
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1. Check that the field can be safely fought upon, preferably before the site is reserved
for the event. Can someone in armor, with restricted vision, cross it safely (i.e.,
without injury; simple tripping is an inherent hazard of combat in rough terrain)? At
minimum, check at the beginning of the day to see if there are holes, soft spots,
rocks, etc. If they are serious and cannot be worked around, move the fighting
somewhere else.
2. Arrange for equipment inspection. (See Equipment Inspection Guidelines below.)
3. Arrange for marshals for all of the combat. That means an absolute minimum of
one marshal per single combat (preferably two or three); enough marshals for group
combat (melees and war battles) to both surround the fighting (to keep an eye on
the boundaries) and keep most of the fights under general surveillance (for detached
armor, broken weapons, etc.). It is relatively common for a marshal-in-charge to
draft anyone he or she feels is competent to serve as field marshals during an event.
Whether these individuals are warranted marshals is a matter of kingdom choice.
The advantage of being a warranted marshal is that you are an official of the
Corporation, which gives you certain legal protection from lawsuits (if any) arising
from your actions as a marshal. Since the Society and its officers have never faced a
lawsuit over fighting on the field, this may not seem critical, but it is worth thinking
about. If volunteers are in short supply, point out to the fighters that they do not get
to start until sufficient marshals are available.
4. When it is all over, write up a report on the event (see the Paperwork section under
VII. Chain of Command).
B. Marshaling Single Combat
1. At minimum, there should be one marshal for single combat. Two or three will be
able to see more of the fight. Four or more will get in each other’s way and block
the view from the sidelines without providing noticeably better marshaling.
2. As noted earlier, marshaling has three parts of nearly equal importance: safety, fair
witness, and showmanship. Excessive concern for any of these, to the neglect of the
other two, will make fighting less enjoyable for all concerned. While these concerns
apply to all marshaling, they are most detailed and balanced in single combat.
3. Safety
a. The field itself can cause safety problems. Before you begin, look over the
area where the fighting will take place. Look particularly for large holes, soft
spots, and rocks. (The fighters will generally accept small holes, rocks, etc.
as part of the terrain.) Once the fight starts, try to keep it away from these
areas. If the hazards are serious, move the fight.As the fighters come onto the
field, take a quick look to see if they have their full armor, especially elbow,
neck, and hand armor. These are the likeliest to be removed and then
forgotten. This should not take any time at all; it is neither a full inspection
nor an attempt to catch someone trying to play silly games with the rules—
just a quick double-check to help someone who may have been distracted by
the excitement of the day.
b. Once the fight has started, watch particularly for broken armor, lost tempers,
injuries, and unauthorized people/pets/objects on the field. (Outsiders,
especially small children and pets, do not always realize that they are
supposed to stay off of the field during combat.) If there is a problem, shout
“Hold!”, several times if necessary. (Most fighters will hear and respond to a
cry of “Hold!” even when they won’t notice their own names being called.)
c. If the first cry of “Hold!” does not cause the fighters to stop, get in between
the fighters (or between the fighters and whoever or whatever has wandered
onto the field) and block the weapons with your staff until the fighting stops.
Keep yelling “Hold!” while you do so that eventually they may notice. That
is one reason why marshals routinely carry staffs on the field.
d. Bear in mind that the various kingdoms have somewhat differing traditions as
to how much marshals should intrude into a fight. On one extreme, some
kingdoms expect marshals to keep their opinions to themselves, except in the
case of clear and immediate safety hazards. At the other extreme, some
kingdoms expect marshals to volunteer advice any time they think the
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fighters might possibly have a question about a blow. If you are new to
marshaling, or merely new to the kingdom you are in, try to find out where in
this spectrum your kingdom lies. It will make a difference in how you act
and, perhaps more importantly, it will make a major difference in what the
fighters expect of you. Blatant violations of the rules and safety concerns
should always be brought up either immediately if necessary for safety
issues, or as there is a “hold” called for rules discussions that can wait until
then.
4. Witness
a. You are expected to be an impartial witness to exactly what happens
during a fight. Ideally, you should be able to describe the last 3–4 blows
on your side of the fight: where they started, their angle of approach, how
they were blocked or where they landed. Do not be afraid to say, “I don’t
know” if you were looking at one part of the fight when something
(allegedly) happened in another part.
b. Do not try to impose your view unless you see what appears to be major
and repeated problems. Leave the blow counting to the participants unless
you see clear reason to intervene; usually, they have a much clearer
perspective than the marshals do.
c. If the fighters do ask you what happened (or you feel compelled to
volunteer), try to do so tactfully. Prefacing your statements with “It
looked to me like...”, “It appeared...”, or “to the crowd it looked like...” is
preferable to a dogmatic assertion of what happened. Similarly, it is
preferable to ask “Was that dent in your helm before?” rather than saying,
“That blow put a 6-inch dent in the side of your helm.” The latter may be
100% accurate, but it is unnecessarily antagonistic to someone who may
honestly have thought the blow too light.
5. How to observe combat
a. In order to be able to answer as accurately as possible, you need as clear
a view as possible. This means being close to the fight. You need to strike
a balance between getting closer to see better and staying back out of
range of the blows. Just what the appropriate distance is for you will
depend on your level of experience with fighting (e.g., how well you can
judge what the range of the weapons is and whether you are in or near it).
In general, for single combat, 20 yards is too far and 2 yards is too close.
In the absence of a better idea, consider 5 yards for weapons less than
3feet in length and 8 yards if either combatant has a longer weapon. Try
to keep moving so that the combatants are roughly centered between you
and the other marshals for the fight.
6. Showmanship
a. Keep an eye on the audience. SCA combat is a spectator sport, just as
medieval tournaments were. Your part of the show is to keep things
moving and avoid blocking the view from the sidelines except where
unavoidable. This means fast pre-fight checks and announcements, a
minimum of holds and discussions during the fight, and a strenuous effort
to stay out of the way and keep moving. (If it’s cold, wear several layers
of clothing and move even more; one person in a cloak can interfere with
the view of many).
C. Marshaling Melees
1. When marshaling a melee, the witness function is necessarily relegated to a very
low priority. (It is not unimportant, but it is impossible for a handful of marshals to
be accurate witnesses to the details of a couple of dozen separate combats.)
2. You should have a minimum of 3 marshals for the first 20 fighters, plus one
additional marshal for each 15 fighters up to a total of 500 fighters and 35 marshals.
If you have more than 500 fighters (realistically, even if you have more than 50
fighters), you should have an experienced Marshal in Charge and a sizable number
of experienced marshals. It is preferable to have more marshals for free-for-all
melees.
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3. Marshals should station themselves around the edges of the fight. This allows them
to control the borders while keeping as much of the fighting as possible in view. It
also prevents fighters from running into them from behind. As always, keep moving
and stay close enough to spot safety problems.
4. In very large melees, it may be desirable to have some marshals in the middle of the
field, in addition to those around the edge. If you are mid-field, be careful that you
do not get so interested in the fight in front of you that you back into or forget to
watch another bout moving around behind you.
XV. COMBAT AUTHORIZATION PROCEDURES
A. This example of an authorization is for an armored combat fighter. This procedure may
be used as-is by a kingdom, or it may be modified as required to reflect differences in
culture and convention. This authorization procedure requires that a member of the
Chivalry (to act as a witness and provide a second opinion), a warranted authorized
marshal, and an experienced authorized fighter be present. This outline is general and
does not deal with the specifics of armor and weapons rules, since these rules may vary.
Warranted authorized marshals will be trained in the specifics as they change.
1. If the fighter does not have proof of a signed waiver (for example, a blue
membership card) prior to the authorization, the candidate and the authorizing
marshal will properly complete a waiver (SCA, Inc. form titled CONSENT TO
PARTICIPATE AND RELASE LIABILITY).
2. The persons conducting the authorization must verify that the candidate is familiar
with the Rules of the List and the current rules that specifically govern the
Kingdom of residence.
3. The candidate must present themselves on the field in armor for inspection. The
armor must be inspected on the body and must pass the current armor requirements
for combat. This inspection shall be complete and exacting, and any deficiencies
must be permanently corrected before the person may authorize.
4. Both the experienced authorized fighter and the candidate shall be armed with
sword and shield or the weapon in which the candidate seeks authorization, if the
kingdom requires separate weapon authorization. (The Earl Marshal may permit a
substitute weapons system.)
5. For the first few minutes of the bout for authorization, the prospective fighter and
the authorized fighter shall fight at 1/2 to 3/4 speed and verbally acknowledge all
blows landed. During this phase of the authorization, the marshal and the member
of the Chivalry should get an impression of the new fighter’s style, technique,
ability to call blows, and ability to defend themselves. If this portion of the
authorization is not satisfactorily completed, the authorization procedure shall be
stopped. The candidate shall be told of the problems observed and instructed as to
how to correct the problems.
6. If the first portion of the bout has progressed satisfactorily, then the combatants will
be told to fight in list-type combat, counting blows until one is defeated. During
this phase, the marshal and member of the Chivalry should observe the new
fighter’s control, reaction to blows, and ability to cope with pressure.
7. The marshal, the member of the Chivalry, and the authorized fighter shall confer to
decide if the new fighter exhibits adequate performance in the minimum criteria for
authorization listed below:
a. Does the candidate know and apply the Rules of the Lists and the
Conventions of Combat?
8. Does the candidate exhibit safe behavior on the field, for both self and others?
9. How does the candidate react to pressure? Does he or she fight back or become
disoriented and confused?
10. Can the candidate defend him or herself?
11. Is the authorizing fighter able to feel and judge blows, both those received and
those thrown?
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12. If the marshal, member of the Chivalry, and authorized fighter agree that the
candidate meets these requirements, the marshal will notify the fighter that they are
now authorized. The fighter and marshal will properly complete any paperwork
required by the kingdom in addition to the previously completed Waiver for SCA
Combat-Related Activities.
13. The fighter will send these properly completed forms to the kingdom official
responsible for issuing authorization cards. Upon receipt of these properly
completed forms, an authorization card will be issued. The fighter shall be issued a
temporary card or keep a copy of the authorization form and waiver if he or she
intends to fight prior to receiving the authorization card. The card should be
received within one month. If the card is not received, the fighter should contact the
authorization official and forward any information or paperwork required.
XVI. EQUIPMENT INSPECTION GUIDELINES
A. General Information
1. At each event, the marshal-in-charge must arrange for the inspection of all
equipment to be used in combat (e.g., armor and weapons). This in no way relieves
the individual combatants of their responsibility for following the equipment
standards. Ultimately, the fighter is responsible for the condition and safety of their
armor and weapons at all times. This includes periods between bouts, between
battles, and day to day periods between battles at a multi-day event. However, the
marshal’s inspection is intended to provide a second pair of experienced eyes and
an outside point of view. A reminder: Equipment that was perfectly serviceable at
the beginning of the previous event could have broken since, and even the most
experienced fighter can occasionally forget some piece of armor. The inspection
outlined below is merely an example. For purposes of illustration, the inspection
described is for regular SCA combat without missile weapons. It does not
necessarily include checks for additional requirements that your kingdom may have
added. A checklist might be helpful as you do the inspection until you have done so
many that it becomes second nature. (As noted in the section on marshaling
combat, a quick visual check of the combatants just before the start of a bout or
battle is also a good idea.) All of this is based on the equipment standards given in
the Appendix. You should be familiar with them, as well as with any other
requirements that your kingdom may have instituted. The fact that one of the
requirements is not mentioned on this checklist does not mean that you should not
notice if it has not been met.
2. Armor inspection must be done with all of the armor on the body of the fighter who
is going to wear it. It is not otherwise possible to get an accurate idea of what is
covered and what is not, of where gaps may occur as the combatant moves. In
weapon inspections, the primary test is safety. If you, as a marshal, do not believe
that the weapon is safe (i.e., if you would not be willing to face it), do not let it be
used on the field. When in doubt, ask the prospective user if he or she would be
willing to fight against the weapon. If not, it should not be used regardless of
whether it meets all other requirements. Before you start, remind yourself that
armor is hot, not to mention heavy. If the weather is hot, try to find some shade in
which to hold the inspection or, at least, for the fighters to stand in while waiting to
be inspected. (Similar reasoning applies in case of rain, freezing cold, or other
inclement weather. Just because it is possible to fight does not mean that it is
pleasant or desirable to stand around in armor.)
3. As a marshal, you are not guaranteeing or certifying that anything is completely
safe, and its use is without risk. The primary responsibility for the safety of
weapons and armor remains with the fighter. You are inspecting to see whether the
item (helmet, armor, weapon, how the armor sits on the fighter, etc.) complies with
our published standards or not. If it does, it may be used in our combat activities —
otherwise it may not. The purpose of our rules, standards and inspections is to
reduce the chance of injury for those who participate. Even with those rules and
standards, all of our combat activities can lead to injury. Properly carrying out your
duties as an officer of the SCA and a marshal will indemnify you in case the
corporation or its officers (of which you are one) are sued.
B. Sample Armor Inspection
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See Section VI, “Armor Requirements” above for Society minimum standards.
1. Leg Armor: Check that the front and sides of the knee are covered. If you are
concerned about coverage during combat, have the fighter flex their knees (either a
deep knee bend or raise one knee at a time) and see that the knee remains covered.
Check for signs that the equipment is faulty.
2. Groin: ASK the fighter if they have remembered their cup or groin protection. Do
NOT attempt to check for it physically.
3. Kidneys: Check for kidney armor. Kidneys are located in the back, at the bottom of
the ribs.
4. Elbows: Check that the point and sides of each elbow are covered. If you are concerned
about coverage during combat, have the fighter flex their arm to validate that the elbow
remains covered. Check for signs that the equipment is faulty.
5. Hands and wrists: Check the gauntlet and/or basket hilt to see if they cover the required
area (the hand and one inch of the forearm). Check for signs that the equipment is faulty.
6. Neck and Head:
a. Checks b. through e. below are to be conducted with the helmet on the

fighter’s head.
b. Have the fighter assume their normal fighting stance. Check that the larynx
and cervical vertebrae are covered. If it appears likely that the fighter’s
coverage for these areas will not remain in place when the fighter moves, you
may have the fighter turn or tilt their head to typical combat positions to see
that the required protections are in place.
c. Check the faceplate and eye slots for greater than one-inch openings that
would allow weapon penetration.
d. Put your hand on the front of the helm, and have the fighter push against
it. See that their face does not hit the faceplate. (A gentle touch of the tip of
the nose to the faceplate at maximum pressure is undesirable, but not grounds
to disqualify the helm.)
e. Lift gently on the front of the faceplate to make sure that the chinstrap is
secured.
f. Have the fighter to remove their head protection and inspect the interior for:
broken welds, internal projections that could cause injury, and the presence
and condition of padding or a suspension system. Padding must be a minimum
of .5 inch (12.7 mm) of closed-cell foam or equivalent padding, or the helmet
shall be suspended in such a way as to prevent contact with the wearer during
combat. Padding and suspension systems degrade over time with use and wear
and may need to be repaired or replaced.
7. Shield: Check the rim for exposed sharp edges. (For this purpose, a 90-degree
angle is a sharp edge.) Check the rest of the shield for sharp edges, broken or
missing rivets, or other signs that it is faulty.
C. Sample Weapon Inspection
See Section VII, “Weapons Standards” above for Society minimum standards.
1. Swords:
a. Check that they meet the minimum diameter (1.25 inch [31.8mm]). A 1.25
inch (31.8mm) marshaling gauge will speed this up enormously.
b. Check that the ends are taped and that there are no exposed cuts in the rattan.
c. Check the quillions or basket hilts for sharp edges, broken or missing rivets,
or other signs that they are coming apart.
d. Check the wrist strap or other means of keeping the sword from flying away.
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2. Thrusting Tips: Check that they have the minimum cross section. Push on the
end to verify the required amount of resilient give. Check that it the tip is
constructed in such a manner that it cannot be forced more than .5 inch (12.7
mm) into a legal faceguard.
3. Mass Weapons: Check the padding for give. Check the wrist strap (single-
handed mass weapons only). Consider the total mass of the weapon.
4. Pole Weapons: Check the thrusting tip, if any. Check the padding for give.
Consider the total mass of the weapon. Check that the weapon meets the
relevant length restrictions.
D. Sample Combat Archery Inspection
1. Bow/Crossbow
a. Ensure that the string is not showing excessive wear.
b. Measure the power of the bow with a calibrated scale to ensure it is within
appropriate specs.
c. Check the bow itself for cracks or gouges, as well as for significant limb
twist that could make the string leave the tips.
2. Crossbow Only
a. Check that the lock mechanism releases smoothly under simulated
pressure.
b. Check that the lock mechanism is solid and will not accidentally fire.
c. Ensure the stock has no failures between the bow and lock.
3. Ammunition
a. Based upon the type of ammunition, measure all dimensions for
conformance
b. With two fingers and a thumb, grab both head and tail and pull with
moderate force while slightly twisting. If either end moves laterally, it
fails.
c. If the ammunition is with made with foam, check that the tip is
constructed in such a manner that it cannot be forced more than .5 inch
(12.7 mm) into a legal faceguard.
d. If the blunt is commercially manufactured, ensure it is in good repair.
e. Check the shaft and APD (if applicable) for signs of cracking or other
failure. If a marshal can place a fingernail in a defect, then it fails.
f. Check that it is properly labeled and taped.
XVII. EXPERIMENTAL WEAPONS AND MATERIALS PROCEDURES
A. Experimental Weapons and Materials
1. Before any unapproved weapon or material can be used at Society activities, a test
plan and a sample of the proposed weapon or material must be submitted to and
approved by the Society Marshal or a designated deputy. This plan shall include:
a. Specifics on construction (e.g., materials used, how it is assembled, etc.),
b. A detailed outline of the test and its scope.
c. All restrictions that will be imposed on the test.
d. How long the test period would be.
If requested, any samples submitted shall be returned to the submitting party no later
than the conclusion of the test period, unless otherwise specified.
2. It is the prerogative of the kingdom Earl Marshal to allow limited testing of
alternate or unapproved materials and weapons within a kingdom after receiving
approval from the Society Marshal. Limited testing means the weapon or material
may be used at fighter practice tourneys and in small melees, but only after all
43
combatants and marshals have been informed the weapon or material is being tested
and that it is not approved for general SCA use.
3. All combatants and marshals must consent to the use of the weapon or material
before combat begins. If any of the marshals or combatants object to the use of the
material or weapon, the material or weapon may not be used in that fight or battle.
All experimental materials and weapons shall be marked with alternating bands of
red and green tape totaling 6 inches (15.2 cm) in length. Bands shall be visible
during weapon usage.
4. Once per quarter throughout the test period, the Earl Marshal will update the
Society Marshal on the progress and results of the testing. At the end of the test
period, the Earl Marshal will provide the Society Marshal with a test summary.
This summary shall include a list of injuries that resulted from the use of the
weapon or material and any concerns from fighters and marshals recorded during
the testing. The Society Marshal, after consultation with the Earls Marshal, shall
determine if the weapon or material is suitable for SCA combat-related activities.
XVIII. MARSHAL RESPONSIBILITIES, CHAIN OF COMMAND AND
REPORTING
A. Reporting Requirements
1. If you are a Marshal-at-Large:
a. Whatever processes your Kingdom requires of a warranted marshal.
b. Reporting on any incident observed, either during or related to combat, on
which the Marshal in Charge was required to report.
2. If you are the Marshal in Charge of an event:
a. Whatever processes your Kingdom requires of a warranted marshal.
b. A brief report on the event, including any incidents in which:
i. Someone was injured.
3. A fighter or marshal had to be disciplined.
4. Event reports shall go to the Principality Knight Marshal or the Kingdom Earl
Marshal. (Reports should not go to the Marshal of the Society!)
5. Any other reports that the Earl Marshal of your Kingdom requires. (If you do not
know, write and ask what he or she will want before the event. It is a lot easier that
way.)
6. If you are the Knight Marshal of a branch:
a. Whatever processes your kingdom requires of a warranted marshal.
b. Regular reports on the state of fighting in your branch. If there are subsidiary
branches (e.g., cantons or ridings), this includes summarizing the reports that
you get from them. Ask your immediate superior how often you need to do
this.
c. Any other reports that the Earl Marshal of your kingdom requires.
7. If you are the Principality or Deputy Kingdom Earl Marshal or Knights Marshal:
a. Whatever processes your kingdom requires of a warranted marshal.
b. Regular reports on the state of fighting in your principality or region.
c. Any other reports that the Earl Marshal of your kingdom requires.
8. If you are the Earl Marshal of a kingdom:
a. An agreement to serve as Earl Marshal.
b. Quarterly reporting to the Society Marshal regarding the state of fighting in
your kingdom. (If you are required to make a similar report to the Crown, a
copy to the Society Marshal is sufficient.)
c. If disciplinary action that extends beyond the bounds of a single event is
44
being taken against a fighter in your kingdom (e.g., authorizations suspended
or revoked, Courts of Chivalry), a brief account of what was done, to whom,
and why. (If more information is needed, for example because of an appeal of
the action, the Society Marshal will let you know.)
d. Either individual warrants must be provided for each member of the
marshallate in your kingdom, or a roster must be maintained. (Information on
the roster system may be obtained from your kingdom seneschal.) This task
may be partially delegated to the regional or principality marshal of your
kingdom, if any.
e. Answer correspondence from the Knights Marshals of your kingdom.
9. If you are Marshal of the Society:
a. On a quarterly basis, report to the President (and thence to the Board) on
the state of the marshallate.
b. Provide warrants for the Earls Marshal as they are appointed.
c. Answer correspondence from the Earls Marshal.
XIX. PROCEDURES FOR GRIEVANCES AND SANCTIONS
A. Grievances and Disputes
Usually the combatants are more than willing to correct any problems or breaches of the
rules pointed out by a marshal. This is the desired solution: get the problem fixed.
However, occasionally a marshal must take action. In the unhappy event that you find it
necessary, here is how you shall proceed. In order of preference:
1. Point out the violation (missing armor, grappling during combat, etc.) and ask the
fighter to correct it.
2. In the case of missing or inadequate armor, do not allow the combatant onto the
field until it has been fixed.
3. In the case of violation of the rules during combat, ask the combatant to leave the
field, and do not allow combat to resume until he or she has cooled off. This
particularly includes removing from the field anyone who has lost his or her
temper.
4. If you need support, call on (in order):
a. Any other marshals who are present (especially the marshal-in-charge).
5. A regional, deputy, or principality Earl or Knight Marshal.
6. The kingdom Earl Marshal
7. The local Seneschal
8. The principality or kingdom seneschal
9. The Crown
10. If the violation cannot be stopped, convince the marshal-in-charge and the local
seneschal to end the event.
11. In any case where voluntary correction is not made after the problem has been
pointed out, a detailed written report shall be made to the Earl Marshal as soon as
possible after the event. In cases where the fighter has made corrections voluntarily
a report should be sent to the Earl Marshal if a pattern of problems, even minor
ones from the same fighter is occurring.
B. Sanctions
1. In addition to removing an unsafe combatant from the field at the time, long-term
sanctions are available. These will normally be applied by the marshallate of the
kingdom rather than by a local marshal. Procedures outlined in kingdom law or
kingdom marshal policies shall be adhered to when sanctioning any person.
2. Sanctions which revoke or limit the ability of a fighter to participate for no longer
than a single event (even if the event is a multi-day event or war) are not considered
45
to be “administrative sanctions” as discussed in the Society Sanction Guide, and do
not follow procedures for administrative sanctions.
3. Possible sanctions include:
a. Revoking the authorization of the individual to fight with a particular
weapon. (This sanction may be applied whether or not your kingdom does
authorizations by weapon forms.)
4. Revoking the authorization of the individual to fight at all.
5. Recommendation to the Crown to banish the individual from participation in
events.
6. Recommendation to the Board to banish the individual from the Society and its
activities.
7. If any of these long-term sanctions are in progress, the Society Marshal shall be
informed.
8. If authorization has been revoked, it is acceptable to inform the Earls Marshal of
any neighboring kingdoms to which the currently unauthorized fighter might travel.
Once long-term sanctions have been applied, a report shall be made to the Marshal
of the Society.
9. An authorization from any Kingdom may be suspended/revoked in another
Kingdom, should it prove necessary and appropriate. Such suspension/revocation
means that the fighter may not fight anywhere in the Society until and unless the
issue is resolved. Accordingly, the Earl Marshal of the kingdom issuing the
suspension shall inform the Society Marshal and the Earls Marshal of the
neighboring kingdoms.
10. Furthermore, if the fighter is subsequently re-authorized, the neighboring Earls
Marshal shall again be notified.

46
XXI. GLOSSARY
The definitions that follow apply throughout the Handbook, unless specifically stated otherwise.
They are intended to clarify usage and establish a frame of reference for the various materials used in
SCA combat.
A. Armor Materials
Aventail: flexible curtain of chainmail on a helmet, extending to cover the neck and shoulders.
Bars: Used in the visor or faceplate of helms, bars shall be mild steel a minimum of 3/16 inch
(4.5mm) in diameter, or the equivalent. If the distance between crossbars is 2 inches (50.8
mm) or less, .125 (that is, 1/8) inch (3.2 mm) bars may be used.
Camail: flexible curtain of mail or leather on a helm, extending to cover the neck
(also aventail).
Closed-cell foam: stiff foam with closed cells, less dense than resilient foam (e.g.,
Ensolite).
Equivalent: virtually identical to the specified material in effect or function, including
impact resistance, impact distribution, and impact absorption characteristics, but not
necessarily in physical dimensions.
Foam: any open- or closed-cell foam, including foam rubber, foam neoprene,
polyurethane, etc.
Gauge: U.S. sheet metal standard. Note that 16-gauge is officially 1/16 inch (.0625 inch or
about 1.6mm), but commercially available sheet is frequently rolled to .058 or even .055 inch—
much too thin for helms.
Gauntlet: An armored glove covering the back of the hand, fingers, and thumb and the points
and back of the wrist.
Gorget: a piece of armor designed to cover the throat and neck.
Heavy leather: stiff, oak-tanned leather nominally 11/64 inch (.171875 inch or 4.4 mm) thick.
This is referred to as 11 ounce leather.
Mail: any fabric of small metal components either linked together (e.g., chain) or attached to a
flexible backing (e.g., ring or scale).
Padding: quilted or multi-layered cloth material, such as mattress pads, moving pads,
carpet, felt, or equivalent
Partial gauntlet (also called a half-gauntlet or demi-gauntlet): An armored glove covering
the back of the hand and at least the first knuckle of the thumb, as well as the points and back
of the wrist.
Plate: large components of rigid material.
Resilient foam: dense, plastic, closed-cell foam such as ethyl polymer.
Rigid material:
a. Steel of no less than 18 gauge, or aluminum of no less than 0.075 inch
(1.9mm)
b. Other metals of sufficient thickness to give similar rigidity to those listed
above to include treated steel or aluminum
c. High-impact-resistant plastics such as ABS or polyethylene of sufficient
thickness to give similar rigidity to those listed above

47
d. Heavy leather (as defined above) that has been hardened in hot wax, soaked in
polyester resin (properly catalyzed), or treated in such a manner as to
permanently harden the leather
e. Two layers of untreated heavy leather (as defined above)
f. Other materials equivalent to those items listed above (Any armor of unusual
construction or materials must meet the approval of the kingdom or
Principality Earl Marshal or their designated deputy.)
Steel: cold- or hot-rolled mild steel or equivalent ferrous material
B. Weapons
Striking surface: Because of the nature of our activities and the ability of our weapons to break
during use the “striking surface” of a weapon is to be considered throughout the entire striking
portion, blade, or head, of the weapon, not only the outside “skin” or layer. This includes all
interior construction materials and parts no matter how “deep” inside.
Approved rigid plastics: Siloflex and Siloflex equivalents are currently the only rigid plastic
approved for the striking surface of a weapon.
Bow: A projectile launcher consisting of a material held under tension by a string. Also
referred to as a Handbow.
Crossbow: A projectile launcher consisting of a bow (called a prod) being mounted to a
stock, with a lock mechanism to hold the string and full draw and allow its release via a
trigger.
Flail: a weapon with a striking surface attached to the handle via a flexible arm or pivot.
Laminated rattan: Two pieces of rattan, each being at least 1 inch (25.4 mm) in diameter,
attached to one another with a short overlap by tape or other method of binding. Maximum
length of the overlap shall be 18 inches (85.7 cm) or half of the length of the added rattan,
whichever is shorter. Note that use of glues, epoxies, or adhesives, which substantially reduce
the flexibility of the rattan, is prohibited.
Missile weapon: any weapon which is intended to deliver a blow without being held in the
hand (e.g., arrows, javelins, quarrels, or various soft projectiles from catapults).
Polearms: hafted weapons, generally long, designed to be wielded with two hands (e.g., glaives,
halberds, etc.).
Progressively resistant give (as used in discussions of thrusting tips): As pressure is applied
directly to the thrusting surface, it will compress gradually, without bottoming-out or bending to
the side enough to expose the end of the blade, haft or blunt/core of the weapon to which it is
attached.
Quillions: cross-guards of a sword.
Siloflex: A brand-name polyethylene tubing has been made from PE 3408 and PE 3608, but is
now PE 4710 resin and conforming to ASTM D2239 standards. The material is approved for
various uses throughout the rules in pressure ratings ranging from 75 PSI to 200 PSI. Please
check the standards in the appropriate area of the rules for what is allowed.
Siloflex equivalent: HDPE Water Service Pipe materials meeting ASTM D2239 (and
minimum of 1 inch (25.4mm) inner diameter) or ASTM D2737 (and minimum of 1.25 inch
(31.8mm) outer diameter) and manufactured of PE3408, PE3608, PE3710 or PE4710 resin,
or equivalent.
Spears: hafted weapons designed for thrusting only; also called pikes.
Single-handed mass weapons: maces, axes, war hammers, or other weapons designed primarily
48
to crush or punch holes (on account of the weight of the real weapons), rather than primarily to
cut (on account of sharp edges on the real weapon). Maximum length for single-handed mass
weapons is 48 inches (122cm).
Slider: a tube or similar device that wraps around the shaft of a spear and is held in one hand,
allowing the spear to slide through it. Use of sliders is prohibited.
Split rattan: Rattan of at least 1.25 inch (31.75 mm) diameter which has been split in two and
applied to a weapon such that the striking surface of the split piece retains a cross section of
1.25 inch (25.4 mm). Split rattan construction does not place the split rattan directly against the
non-split haft of the weapon, but rather spaces the split off of the haft to allow give in the head
by flexion of the split of rattan.
Swords: single- or double-edged, bladed cutting weapons (including swords with thrusting
tips).
Two-handed cutting or smashing weapons: includes two-handed swords, greatswords,
bastard swords, polearms, and similar weapons.
UHMW: Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene – A wear resistant plastic with
outstanding impact strength.
C. Other Definitions
Armored combat: A full contact, non-choreographed re-creation of medieval foot combat
utilizing clothing, protective armor, and simulated weapons constructed in accordance with
SCA standards, with the overall goal of recreating the appearance and methods of combat from
the historical period covered by the SCA. For purposes of this definition, all combatants are
held to be equipped in the same manner, defined as that of approximately 1100 AD: a knee-
length mail hauberk, one-piece helm with nasal, and boiled leather defenses for the lower arms
and legs. Weapons and armor are constructed from approved materials as defined by the
Society Marshal. Adult armored combat as defined above does not include light contact martial
forms, such as rapier and youth combat. Adult armored combat includes all combat archery and
siege weaponry used in melees or for war.
Armored fighter: a combatant equipped in inspected and approved armor, who meets at least
the minimum requirements for combat using rattan weapons, and who uses said rattan weapons
in combat.
Authorization: a procedure which determines that the individual fighter has, at minimum, read
and become familiar with the rules of combat, been observed while fighting, and met any
further requirements for authorization to ensure that he or she does not constitute an exceptional
safety hazard (either to self or to others). Details of the procedure used vary from kingdom to
kingdom and may include further requirements. (Note: The former term “qualification” is still
heard, but should be avoided.)
Battle: a single combat event in a war or war game wherein a specific scenario is enacted.
Combat archer: a combatant equipped in inspected and approved armor, who meets at least the
minimum requirements for combat using rattan weapons and who will be using archery
equipment in combat. Rules for combat archery weapons and conventions are found in this
handbook.
Directed touch: a thrust that contacts the face-guard of the helm and, while maintaining
contact with the face-guard, continues to travel in the direction of the face.
Earl Marshal: the warranted chief marshal of a kingdom.
Effective blow: a blow delivered with effective technique for the particular type of weapon
used and struck properly oriented and with sufficient force.

49
Eric, List Field, Tourney Field: the defined area for fighting, or the fighting field, usually
with a roped-off boundary.
Fully armored: For the purposes of acknowledging blows, a fully armored fighter is
presumed to be wearing a lightweight, short-sleeved, knee-length, riveted-mail hauberk over
a padded gambeson, with boiled leather arm and leg defenses and an open-faced iron helm
with a nasal. (The helm may be presumed to include a very light chain mail drape permitting
vision and resisting cuts by a mere touch of a bladed weapon.) Also, the hands, wrists, knees
and lower legs, and feet, including the areas up to 1 inch (25.4 mm) above the kneecap and 1
inch (25.4 mm) above the bend of the wrist, are not legal targets.
Helpless opponent: an opponent who is unable to defend him- or herself from attack for
reasons beyond their control. An unarmed opponent is not necessarily helpless.
Knights Marshal: The warranted chief marshal of a Principality, Barony, Province,
Shire, Canton, etc.
Missile weapons: projectile weapons including, but not limited to, bows and arrows,
crossbows and bolts, slings and stones or bullets, javelins, darts, and throwing axes.
Marshal: someone who is monitoring the conduct of combat on the field. (The marshal in
charge of an event shall be a warranted marshal; other individual marshals may or may not be,
so long as the marshal in charge finds them competent to do the job.)
Rattan weapons: rattan or equivalent weapons including, but not limited to, swords of
all lengths, great weapons, mass weapons, pole arms and spears.
Rostered: An appointed marshal who is listed on a roster. The roster must include the legal
and Society names, address, phone number, and the appointment and expiration dates for each
officer. It must be signed by the appropriate royalty and the responsible superior officer, and
be updated regularly. The roster must contain a statement that it is the current roster of (office)
for the (kingdom, principality) of the Society as of (date). Local Knights Marshal and marshals
who are able to perform authorizations must be either warranted or rostered.
Scenario limits: The body of rules and definitions which apply to a specific battle, such as
the description of real or imaginary terrain features, obstacles, weapons limitations,
allowable conduct, and scoring.
Siege Engineer: a fully armored participant in armored combat who operates a siege engine.
Society Marshal, Marshal of the Society, Society Marshal (SEM): the warranted chief
marshal of the Society for Creative Anachronism.
War: a declared state of feigned hostility between two or more kingdoms, branches, or other
recognized SCA subdivisions, for the express intent of holding group combat.
War maneuvers: group combat events not involving a state of declared hostility, usually with
both sides drawn from all of the kingdoms, branches, or other recognized SCA groups
participating.
Warranted: An appointed marshal who has been appointed by a Warrant of Appointment
to Office of the SCA Inc., signed by the appropriate Royalty and the responsible superior
officer. Local Knight Marshals, as and marshals who are able to perform authorizations
must be either warranted or rostered.
Youth combat is a program designed for minors ages 6-17. These programs require armor,
require certain weapon construction techniques and materials, train young fighters in proper
etiquette, the concepts of Chivalry, Honor and Courtesy, teach teamwork and good
sportsmanship, as well as effective fighting arts, in a definitely competitive environment that
parallels Adult Armored Combat. It employs Marshals, authorizations and strict controls. The
Marshallate is responsible for Youth Combat, and each Kingdom is allowed to develop and run
50
its own program.

51
INDEX Grappling, 10
Grievances, 34
"All rise!", 25
"Hold!", 10, 12, 25, 27 Helms
"Lay on!", 25 Requirements, 13
Injuries, 26
Acknowledgement of Blows, 11
Alcohol or drugs, 10 Inspection, 30
Ammunition, 11, 13, 32 Armor, 31
Blunts, 20 Combat archery, 32
Weapons, 32
Combat archery, 19
Leg armor, 15
Fellwalker, 22
Marshaling
Light, 19
Melees, 28
Siege weapons, 23
Tubular, 21 Preparation, 27
Arm armor, 15 Requirements, 26
Safety, 27
Armor inspection, 31
Armor Requirements, 13 Showmanship, 28
Arms, 15 Single Combat, 27
Body, 14 Witness, 28
Minors, 7
Eyes, 14
Hand and wrist, 14 Neck
Helms, 13 Armor requirements, 14
Real weapons, 8
Legs, 15
Neck, 14 Reporting requirements, 33
Shields, 15 Rules of the Lists, 7
Asgard APDs, 20 Applications, 8
Safety, 27
Authorization
Sanctions, 35
Marshals, 24
Minors, 7 Shields
Armor requirements, 15
Participants, 6
Procedures, 29 Siege Combat, 23
Baldar blunts, 20 Sliders, 15
Slings, 16
Behavior, 9
Blow calling, 11 Target Areas, 10
Chain of command, 33 Throwing weapons, 18
Combat archery Thrusting tips, 17
Tubular ammunition, 21
Ammunition, 19
UHMW, 20
Weapons, 18
Combat Archery inspection, 32 Use of Weapons and Shields, 11
Waiver, 6, 29
Consent to Participate and Release Liability, 7,
29 Minors, 7
Conventions of Combat, 9 Wars
Combat Archery, 10 Marshaling at, 24
Disputes, 34 Weapon inspection, 32
Equipment inspection, 30 Weapons
Experimental weapons and materials, 33 Crossbows, 18
Fiberglass spears, 17
Eye wear, 14
Handbows, 18
Fellwalker ammunition, 22
Fiberglass spears, 17 Prohibitions, 15
Single-handed, 16
Flails, 15
Glossary Standards, 15
Armor Materials, 36 Thrown, 18
Other Definitions, 38 Thrusting tips, 17
Weapons, 37 Two-handed, 16
Gorget, 14 Yellow diamonds, 7
MARSHAL’S HANDBOOK – July 2020
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Marshal’s Handbook

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M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K –July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K –July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020 5

d. Commercially Manufactured APDs

i. Allowed commercial APSs: Asgard only.

g. UHMW (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene)

d. Baldar Blunt Head

IX. ARMORED COMBAT WITH REBATED BLADES (ARMORED STEEL COMBAT)

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

2. Weapon minimum standards

Arming Sword/ Broad Sword: Long sword/ Bastard Sword:

• Max Weight 1.7 kg • Max Weight 2.3 kg

Additional requirements: Additional requirements:

2. Shield minimum standards

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

1. All combat shall be fought in duel/singles style of tournament.

1. Thrusting with the blade of the weapon (all thrusts).

K. Permissible Tournament Styles

L. List field requirements

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M. Marshalling Armored Steel Combat

1. Marshal Training Requirements

The MIC and the Field Marshals may also be competitors.

Scorecard Round __________

Fighter 1__________________________________ Score _ ______ W/L _____

Judge __________________ Score ____ Judge _______________ Score ____

Fighter 2__________________________________ Score _ _______ W/L _____

Judge __________________ Score ____ Judge ________________ Score ____

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

6. Neck and Head:

a. Checks b. through e. below are to be conducted with the helmet on the

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

M A RSH A L’S H A N D BO O K – July 2020

MARSHAL’S HANDBOOK – July 2020

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Fighter 1__________________________________ Score _ __ W/L _

Judge ________ Score Judge _ Score

Fighter 2__________________________________ Score _ ___ W/L _

Judge ______ Score Judge Score